For Sale: Joe’s Own Home

One of the most important homes in the history of Eichler Homes is coming onto the market in March 2024, and the question is: Will it survive?

A rambling structure of redwood and glass, the Joe and Lillian Eichler residence at 19 Irving Avenue in Atherton is key to Joe's career.

Built in 1951, it was the first custom house Eichler ever built, and his first project working with the architects who would soon define what it means for a home to be an 'Eichler.'

The Eichlers lived in the Anshen and Allen-designed home for 14 years (1951-'65), longer than they lived in any other home.

It's a beautiful home, with a spacious living-dining room that opens to a mature garden centered on a swimming pool, a long hallway with four bedrooms ending at a bonus room, and with remarkable detailing throughout.

Still, though the home is generously sized (3,700 square feet), it is on a large lot (nine-tenths of an acre) that could accommodate a much bigger home, in a wealthy community where homebuyers are not reluctant to tear down and replace.

Care to see an example? Sit in the backyard with Judson Feder, who owns 19 Irving with his two brothers, and look over the fence to a house across the street. Originally an Eichler, that home was replaced a few years ago by a seven-bedroom, 6,444-square-foot giant that just hit the market—for $14,950,000.

Does the Joe and Lillian home stand a chance? Judson, whose father and mother bought the house from Joe in 1965, says "yes."

"It would be terribly wasteful to demolish a house that's so beautiful," he says. "It's sort of a crime against culture to tear down such a house."

That's why the brothers chose the Boyenga Team realtors to market the house. Eric and Janelle Boyenga are Eichler specialists, members of the Eichler Network service team, who appreciate the style.

"Given the architectural and historical significance of Joseph Eichler's custom-designed Anshen and Allen home, we're optimistic about finding a buyer who appreciates its historical value and is interested in preservation," Eric says.

"The economic considerations are multi-faceted," he says. "On one hand, the unique nature of the property adds value; but on the other, the costs associated with restoring this historic home can be significant. However, we feel the historical and architectural significance of this property will attract buyers who see beyond just the economic aspects."

"Representing Eichler's home is not just about a sale," Eric adds. "It's about stewarding a piece of architectural history into the hands of those who dream in design and live in art."