Tri-Valley Tract Tales

A historical tour of Sunset's 300 Series, Livermore (1964–1965) Explore Sunset's 300 Series in Livermore through vintage 1964–1965 newspaper ads and see what the original model homes look like today.  Built in Sunset West (Granada Village), the 300 Series homes represented a new level of sophistication in suburbia.  A curated archive for fans of 1960s–70s architecture, suburban design, and East Bay history. Welcome to the 300 Series, 1964–1965 In February 1964, Sunset Homes unveiled their second act in Livermore’s up-and-coming Granada Village —a blossoming patch of suburbia that promised modern living with a twist of charm. This new collection of homes wasn’t just another phase; it was a leap into “a new dimension in suburban sophistication,” as the grand opening ad so boldly declared. And with good reason. From a February 1964 Oakland Tribune ad —s ure, the city’s ‘just over the hill’—if you’ve got a telescope, a clear day, and a vivid imagination. Sunset wasn’t just buildi...

A historical tour of H. C. Elliott's Vintage Hills, Pleasanton (1970–1976) Explore Vintage Hills in Pleasanton through vintage 1968–1971 newspaper ads and see what the original model homes look like today. A curated archive for fans of 1960s–70s architecture, suburban design, and East Bay history. Welcome to Vintage Hills, 1970–1976 If you’ve ever wandered into Pleasanton and stumbled upon Vintage Hills , you’ve probably asked yourself: what’s the story behind this delightful neighborhood? With its sweeping views, architectural quirks, and unmistakable character, Vintage Hills is a hillside treasure full of personality. Location of H. C. Elliott's Vintage Hills neighborhood in Pleasanton, California. A neighborhood with a view Developed by H.C. Elliott between 1970 and 1976, Vintage Hills occupies roughly 139 acres on what was once vineyard-covered terrain. With 472 homes overlooking the Amador Valley, the neighborhood quickly became a coveted spot for buyers looking for ch...

A historical tour of William Lyon Homes, San Ramon (1968–1973) Explore William Lyon Homes in San Ramon through vintage 1968–1973 newspaper ads and see what the original model homes look like today. A curated archive for fans of 1960s–70s architecture, suburban design, and East Bay history. Welcome to William Lyon Homes, 1968–1973 William Lyon Homes encompass a remarkable chapter in San Ramon’s suburban development, featuring three distinctive home series built between 1968 and 1973 across two neighborhoods. Location of The Classics neighborhood in San Ramon, California. California Classics and American Classics homes were built in this neighborhood. Location of the Danridge neighborhood, where Danridge, California Classics, and American Classics homes were built. The story begins with the California Classics series, an award-winning collection of award-winning floor plans. These homes, built by the prolific William Lyon Homes, offered 2 to 4 bedrooms—each distinguished by the signat...