Published June 20, 2025
In March 1971, Sunset Homes introduced the Ripplebrook Series, a line of lower-priced homes in Livermore. Ripplebrook was one of three Sunset Homes series being marketed around 1970–71, alongside the mid-priced Quietwood Series and the more expensive Wildwood Series.
The three series were part of Sunset Homes' expanding Livermore operation, which the builder promoted under the broader name “Sunsetown.” Sunset marketed the series separately, with each offering its own group of home designs and price range, while building the homes within its developing Livermore neighborhoods.
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| April 1971 ad for the grand opening of Ripplebrook Series in Livermore. The ad promotes homes starting at $20,950. |
Where Ripplebrook homes were built
Ripplebrook homes were built by Sunset Homes in several Livermore neighborhoods being developed concurrently, including what are now known as Sunset East, Three Fountains, and Whispering Pines. In its early-1970s advertising, Sunset Homes promoted these developments collectively as “Sunsetown.”
Homes and architecture
When Sunset Homes introduced Ripplebrook in 1971, prospective buyers encountered the series through its four model homes. The models showcased the four designs, floor plans, features, and finishes available in the Ripplebrook Series.
The Ripplebrook home designs
The original model homes provide a useful cross-section of Ripplebrook's architecture. Sunset Homes selected four models for the 1971 opening on Heidelberg Drive. Although buyers could choose among different elevations and options, these models document the versions Sunset chose to put on display.
The Taku
This design offered approximately 1,330 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
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| Present-day view of the home that served as Sunset Homes’ 1971 Taku model in Ripplebrook. Imagery from Google Street View. |
The Hacienda
This design offered approximately 1,239 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
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| Present-day view of the home that served as Sunset Homes’ 1971 Hacienda model and sales office in Ripplebrook. Imagery from Google Street View. |
The Maison
This design offered approximately 1,026 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms.
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| Present-day view of the home that served as Sunset Homes’ 1971 Maison model in Ripplebrook. Imagery from Google Street View. |
The Colbeh
This design offered approximately 1,580 square feet with up to 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
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| Present-day view of the home that served as Sunset Homes’ 1971 Colbeh model (with added front gable) in Ripplebrook. Imagery from Google Street View. |
Marketing Ripplebrook
The Ripplebrook Series offered four home designs ranging from approximately 1,026 to 1,580 square feet. Although smaller than Sunset Homes' Wildwood and Quietwood offerings, the designs incorporated many of the features the builder promoted in its larger homes, including signature fireplaces, open living areas, built-ins, and distinctive ceiling treatments.
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| 1971 Oakland Tribune advertisement for Ripplebrook at Sunsetown, highlighting quality, affordability, and the series' interior designs. |
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| 1971 Oakland Tribune clipping showing the interior of the Taku model, including its timber ceiling and signature Sunset fireplace. |
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| 1973 Oakland Tribune clipping noting that local schools organized field trips to view the Maison model's distinctive metallic ceiling. |
Collection
Livermore — the making of a suburban city
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