A spectacular example of midcentury modern living can be yours for $2,349,000 in San Jose, CA.

The 4-bedroom, 2-bath, 1,755-square-foot showpiece at 1636 Fairlawn Ave., was completed in 1958.

The sellers, Tom Borsellino and Monika Kafka, have ensured that it not only presents as an authentic example of a Joseph Eichler–built home—but that it also meets the needs of contemporary life.

What is an Eichler home?

Eichler, who was a real estate developer, built tract housing in California in the 1950s and 60s.

It was his professional mission to create modern, luxurious-feeling homes for the middle class. Eichler built more than 11,000 houses over the course of his career, mostly in the San Francisco and Los Angeles areas; and he changed the look of contemporary living in the suburbs.

Eichler’s homes were mass-produced but with forethought and consideration. His goal was to set the houses within the context of the landscape. Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, Eichler designed homes characterized by clean lines, open living spaces, and abundant light.

A typical Eichler dwelling features smaller, street-facing windows; large windows facing an outdoor space behind the home; and distinctive rooflines.

San Jose stunner

The property on the market is nestled in the coveted Willow Glen neighborhood. Inside, every detail pays homage to the era, including the original mahogany panels throughout, a custom-designed kitchen, and an inviting atrium. The preservation has been a labor of love for the owners.

“There was significant termite and dry-rot damage when we bought, so we replaced almost all the exterior panels, which were all custom made to the original specifications,” Borsellino says. “We also replaced a significant number of interior mahogany panels … while adding upgrades like solar panels and A/C.”

As Kafka explains, every effort was made to make it appear—effortless.

“We spent a lot of money to make it look like we didn’t spend any,” she acknowledges. “It will appeal to someone who appreciates midcentury design and wants a house that retains its original charm—but without all the headaches of a 60-year-old house.”

The home opens into an atrium, which leads to a dining and kitchen combination, four spacious bedrooms, and a bonus room currently being used as home office.

Energy-minded buyers will appreciate the electric-vehicle hookup and solar panels.

Kafka says the ideal buyer is a design and architecture enthusiast looking for a warm home in a tight-knit community.

“A great thing that is often overlooked is the neighborhood,” she says. “We have block parties and regular get-togethers. The women have a regular bunco game that’s been going on for 20 years. Everyone is friendly, and it feels like a close-knit neighborhood that we imagine existed in the 1950s.”

The listing agents are Jesse England and Amy Yarosz, of Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Cruz Brokerage.

• For more photos and details, check out the full listing.
• See other homes for sale in San Jose, CA.
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