Sunset Homes' Quietwood Series in Livermore (1971–1973): round kitchens & modern living
A historical tour of Sunset's Quietwood Series, Livermore (1971–1973)
Explore Sunset’s Quietwood Series through vintage 1971–1973 newspaper ads and see what the original model homes look like today. Spanning three Livermore neighborhoods—Whispering Pines, Sunset East, and Three Fountains, the Quietwood homes were designed for mid-level buyers seeking comfort, efficiency, and a touch of flair—a curated archive for fans of 1960s–70s architecture, suburban design, and East Bay history.
Welcome to Quietwood, 1971–1973
On November 21, 1971, Sunset Homes unveiled a new vision for suburban living with the debut of the Quietwood series—a refreshingly modern lineup of homes designed for mid-level buyers with an eye for comfort, efficiency, and flair. Launched in Livermore’s Three Fountains neighborhood, Quietwood marked a vibrant next step following Sunset’s entry-level Ripplebrook and high-end Wildwood series.
A neighborhood that gave you space to breathe
Set against a backdrop of minimum 10,000 sq. ft. lots, the Three Fountains neighborhood offered something more than just another subdivision—it was a place where families could stretch out, settle in, and stay awhile. The model complex a 722 Alden Lane opened to wide-eyed buyers who found four homes decked out in bold finishes and colorful details—each a reflection of Sunset’s evolving design sensibility.
Buyers could also build a Quietwood home in Whispering Pines or Sunset East, making the series a flexible and popular option across several desirable locations.
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| Homes from the Quietwood series were built in the Three Fountains, Whispering Pines, and Sunset East neighborhoods in Livermore, California. |
All about the kitchens
If there was a single feature that turned heads and captured hearts, it was the kitchen-in-the-round. Offered in the Magnolia model, this innovative design wrapped cabinetry and appliances around a central cooking core—a dynamic setup that redefined the open kitchen. It was part stage, part workstation, and all style.
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| From a December 1971 Daily Review photo—the queen of the Quietwood series, the Magnolia model, featuring its signature round kitchen and bold architectural styling. |
Sunset had dabbled in round kitchens before, but the Quietwood version brought it to life with mid-century polish: vinyl flooring, pass-through windows, and lighting that made entertaining feel effortless.
Other models in the series leaned into entertainment islands—central hubs designed for casual dinners, cookie decorating, or catching up over coffee.
The model homes of Quietwood
The Quietwood model complex on Alden Lane featured four beautifully staged homes, each with its own blend of charm and smart planning. With pricing starting at $27,850, they brought high design within reach for many mid-century families.
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| Site of the Quietwood series model home complex on Alden Lane. |
Pricing history
- 1971: $27,850 - $31,850
- 1972: $28,850 - $33,700
- 1973: $31,250 - $36,450
Model homes
1. The Escalonia - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,324 sq. ft. This cozy plan included an entertainment island and a smart footprint for young families or downsizers.
2. The Gardenia - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,466 sq. ft. Sleek finishes, modern vinyl flooring, and a spacious island made the Gardenia one of the most approachable and cheerful homes of the series.
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| For the little cowboy, inside the Gardenia from May 1972. |
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| Floor plan of The Gardenia. |
3. The Magnolia - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,664 sq. ft. The crown jewel. The Magnolia’s round kitchen was a conversation starter and a host’s dream—both functional and theatrical.
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| Floor plan of The Magnolia. |
4. The Nandina - 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,674 sq. ft. With an extra bedroom and open common areas, the Nandina appealed to larger families or work-from-home pioneers.
Quietwood today
Here’s what the original Quietwood models look like in 2024.
The Escalonia today
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| The original Escalonia model today. |
The Gardenia today
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| The original Gardenia model today, with Olive tree (expanded and updated). |
The Magnolia today
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| The original Magnolia model today. |
The Nandina today
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| The original Nandina model today. |
Buildout & legacy
The model homes were put up for sale in October 1973, signaling the end of Quietwood’s sales phase. But the story didn’t end there—due to its popularity, the Magnolia model made a return in Sunset’s Wildwood, The Meadows, and Shadowbrook series of homes, affirming its place as one of the most beloved designs in the builder’s portfolio.
Quietwood might have been a “middle-tier” product in Sunset’s lineup, but for many families, it was their dream home—complete with shag carpet, vinyl floors, and a circular kitchen that stole the show.
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