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.”
Selling the dream
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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| 1971 Contra Costa Times clipping showing the Hacienda model's signature Sunset fireplace, wall-to-wall carpeting, and decorative wall treatments. |
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| 1973 Oakland Tribune clipping noting that local schools organized field trips to view the Maison model's distinctive metallic ceiling. |
The original Ripplebrook models and sales materials
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 original model homes provide a way to revisit that introduction. The guide below documents the original model complex, preserves the original sales material where available, and describes the four designs Sunset Homes offered in the Ripplebrook Series.
Original model home complex
Ripplebrook's four original model homes were arranged on Heidelberg Drive around a sales complex that welcomed prospective buyers when the series opened in 1971.
By mid-1973 the original model homes were put up for sale.
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| Annotated aerial map of the original Sunset Home Ripplebrook Series model home complex on Heidelberg Drive. Base imagery from Apple Maps. |
Original advertised prices
- 1971: $20,950 - $25,600
- 1972: $23,450 - $29,450
- 1973: $24,600 - $30,950
Former model homes
1. The Taku - This model offered approximately 1,330 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
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| Original Taku model today via Google Street View. |
2. The Hacienda - This model offered approximately 1,239 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
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| Original Hacienda model today via Google Street View. The sales office was in this home. |
3. The Maison - This model offered approximately 1,026 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms.
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| Original Maison model today via Google Street View. |
4. The Colbeh - This model offered approximately 1,580 square feet with up to 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
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| Original Colbeh model today (with added front gable) via Google Street View. |
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