Eichler Homes Tour - Fairglen addition
Join PACSJ for a rare public tour in celebration of San Jose’s largest Eichler enclave on Saturday, August 17th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The neighborhood of 218 homes, built between 1959 and 1961, was recently listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Fairglen Additions. Located near Booksin and Curtner Avenues, guests are invited to walk through the tree covered streets centered on Fairwood Avenue, which will be closed to vehicles for the day.
Three homes and a garage with a wonderful H.O. train scenario of Santa Clara County’s west valley during the 1920’s are open for viewing in the event. All homes are within easy walking distance from each other. The Mid-Century Pop Up Shop features several vendors selling period memorabila, décor, and furniture. No need to buy a ticket to shop; the booths will be located in the pedestrian friendly Fairwood Avenue from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
At 11:30, Sally Zarnowitz, AIA, Fairglen Additions Preservation Committee Co-chair and author of the nomination, will provide insites on the significance of the Eichler housing tract, designed by architects Jones and Emmons, Anshen and Allen, and Claude Oakland. Typical Eichler features include flat or low-sloped gable roofs with deep overhangs over exposed beams, open floor plans with atriums or courtyards, and floor to ceiling windows. Interior features include radiant heating and mahogany paneling. Two of the three kitchens feature original kitchen appliances and counters.
San Jose is rich in neighborhoods with distinctive architecture, and PAC*SJ hopes this celebration will encourage more neighborhoods to work towards historic status.
The Fairglen Additions neighborhood hosts an annual community party in the afternoon and this year PAC*SJ’s event occurs in the morning. The neighborhood’s annual party with food trucks, music, dancing, and mingling starts at 4 p.m. All are invited to attend for a small donation.
Tickets are $15 for PAC*SJ members and Fairglen Addition residents, $20 for the public, and $25 on the day of the celebration. For information, email SJEichlercelebration@preservation.org
Eichler Homes article Mercury News