Whispering Pines history: Livermore’s 1968–1973 neighborhood development

Tucked into Livermore’s scenic south end, Whispering Pines emerged as one of Sunset Homes’ most ambitious and complete expressions of its suburban vision. Carved from the larger Sunset South tract and nestled against the rolling hills, Whispering Pines opened in 1968 with generous 10,000+ sq. ft. lots, tree-lined streets, and floor plans pulled from every corner of Sunset’s catalog—from the charming 600 Series to the expansive, architecturally expressive Wildwood and Quietwood homes.

Familiar streets like Lomitas Avenue, Stonebridge Road, and Lexington Way came to define the neighborhood’s graceful sprawl. Construction began in the northern section in 1968, taking full advantage of the elevated terrain and vineyard views. The southern half followed in 1972, and by 1973, every lot had been claimed—completing one of Sunset’s final great Livermore chapters.

Stone and wood entry pillars flanking the road at the Hampton entrance to Whispering Pines in Livermore. The pillars feature stacked stone bases with vertical wooden beams, surrounded by mature landscaping.
Stone and wood pillars mark the entrance to Whispering Pines on Hampton Road—setting a rustic, mid-century tone for the neighborhood beyond.

A neighborhood of series, not models

Unlike many planned subdivisions of the time, Whispering Pines never had a formal model home complex. Instead, it served as a living showroom for nearly every major Sunset home series from the late 1960s to early ’70s. Whether it was the efficient elegance of the 600 Series, the sprawling optimism of the Wildwood Series, or the curvier, softly modern layouts of the Ripplebrook and Quietwood lines—Whispering Pines offered it all. It was a catalog come to life.

Exterior of a Wildwood Series Silvertip model nestling into the Whispering Pines landscape—broad roofline, picture windows, and mature oak trees in a South Livermore setting.
A Silvertip home from the Wildwood Series in the Whispering Pines neighborhood.

Where is Whispering Pines?

Whispering Pines is located in south Livermore—south of Concannon Boulevard and east of Holmes Street. While it blends seamlessly with surrounding neighborhoods today, its wide lots and varied rooflines still hint at a time when tract housing aimed higher.

Map showing Whispering Pines neighborhood in Livermore, California—south of Concannon Boulevard and east of Holmes Street—highlighting street layout and neighborhood boundaries.
Map of the Whispering Pines neighborhood in Livermore, California.

Homes built in Whispering Pines

  • 600 Series (1968–1970): Practical, compact, and packed with mid-century charm.

  • Wildwood Series (1970–1973): A flagship line known for its size, architectural variety, and visual drama.

  • Quietwood Series (1971–1973): Designed for comfort and flow, with indoor-outdoor living in mind.

  • Ripplebrook Series (1971–1973): Slightly smaller than Wildwood, but equally stylish—marked by creative floor plans and affordable sizes.

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