Granada Village: Sunset Homes' 300 Series takes flight (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—sure, the city’s ‘just over the hill’—if you’ve got a telescope, a clear day, and a vivid imagination.

Sunset wasn’t just building homes—they were building desire. With thoughtful layouts, whimsical features, and prices that made first-time buyers blink twice, Sunset Homes quickly became the dominant builder in Livermore. Before long, the neighborhood itself would earn a new name: Sunset West.

Location of the Granada Village neighborhood (now Sunset West) in Livermore, California.

From Camellia to Catalina

Sales took off at the Camellia Drive model complex, nestled near Elaine Avenue. By July 1965, the homes had sold out, and the spotlight shifted to a new set of models on Catalina Drive. But for a brief, sparkling moment, Camellia Drive was the stage for Sunset’s show-stopping 300 Series—a set of six floor plans named with a dash of French flair and a sprinkle of fantasy.

The 300 Series model homes on Camellia Drive

Open for admiration, imagination, and a well-timed financing brochure. 35-year loans had started becoming available; 15 years longer than the usual 20-year loans at the time. The show home complex was located next to an earlier complex on Grace Street.

Site of the 300 Series model home complex.

Pricing history

1964–1965: $16,700 – $22,350

1. La Sirène – 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,127 sq. ft. With a pass-through garage and a name that whispers mermaid dreams, La Sirène was made for those who liked their practicality with a hint of poetry.

The original La Sirène model today.
From a July 1964 Oakland Tribune ad—floor plan of La Sirène, because even mermaids need storage.

2. La Rouge-Gorge – 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Named for the robin, this plan was cozy, cheerful, and ready for nesting.

The original La Rouge-Gorge model today.

3. Le Colibri – 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,484 sq. ft. A fan favorite! Le Colibri (that’s hummingbird, if you’re wondering) included the now-iconic built-in barbecue right in the family room. Yes, inside. Because nothing says "weeknight dinner" like flipping burgers while watching Walter Cronkite.

The original Le Colibri model today (with second-story expansion). This home also housed the sales office.

From a May 1964 Oakland Tribune ad—the famous Sunset built-in barbecue. Accept no substitutes.

4. La Corneille – 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,496 sq. ft. The crow may be humble in name, but this home was generous in size—perfect for growing broods and neighborhood sleepovers.

The original La Corneille model today.

5. La Mouette – 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,792 sq. ft. The seagull never soared this gracefully. La Mouette was the largest model in the series, ideal for homeowners with big plans and bigger furniture.

The original La Mouette model today.

6. La Continental – 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,384 sq. ft. Added in September 1964, this stylish number brought a touch of European elegance to Livermore’s sun-drenched lots. Think of it as the little black dress of floor plans.

From a September 1964 Oakland Tribune ad—the La Continental—always on time, always in style.

A short, shining chapter in Sunset’s suburban storybook

Though the 300 Series only graced Livermore for a brief window between 1964 and 1965, its impact was anything but fleeting. These homes—part bird, part daydream—set the tone for everything Sunset would do next. With whimsical names, built-in barbecues, and just enough French flair to make a tract home feel like a treasure, they invited families into a lifestyle that felt modern, warm, and just a little bit enchanted.

These homes weren’t just structures; they were characters in Sunset’s ever-growing ensemble—each offering a new way to live, entertain, and imagine suburban life. As the flags moved from Camellia to Catalina, and from colibris to castillos, one thing was certain: Sunset wasn’t done dreaming—and neither were the families lucky enough to move in.

Related post: The story of Sunset Homes

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