Eichlers, Victorians, and Bungalows: A Guide to Willow Glen Architecture

Most San Jose neighborhoods look the same. Willow Glen does not. Here is how to spot the difference.

Drive ten minutes in any direction in San Jose, and you’ll likely see miles of identical 1970s ranch houses. But drive down Lincoln Avenue, and you are traveling through a time capsule. Willow Glen is one of the few neighborhoods in Silicon Valley where you can find a 1920s Craftsman, a 1930s Spanish Eclectic, and a 1960s Mid-Century Modern masterpiece all within the same zip code.

Understanding these styles isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about understanding value. Here is your field guide to the three architectural pillars of the neighborhood.

1. The Craftsman Bungalow (The “Front Porch” Classic)

If you are walking near Lincoln Avenue—especially in the coveted “Golden Triangle” or the historic Northside—this is the style you will see most.

The Look: Broad front porches with thick tapered columns, low-pitched rooflines, and deep overhanging eaves.
The Vibe: These homes were built for interaction. The wide porches were the original social network, designed for sitting out and waving to neighbors.
Where to find them: The streets immediately surrounding Lincoln Avenue and the “Avenues” (e.g., Minnesota to Willow).

2. The Spanish Eclectic (The Romantic)

Sprinkled among the bungalows are the stunning Spanish Eclectic (or Mission Revival) homes that give Willow Glen its warm, Mediterranean feel.

The Look: White or cream stucco walls, red tile roofs, arched doorways, and often a private courtyard hidden behind a low wall.
The Vibe: These homes often feel like a private retreat. While Bungalows are about the front porch, Spanish Eclectic homes often turn inward to lush courtyards, offering a cool, breezy escape during San Jose summers.
Where to find them: Scattered throughout the older parts of the neighborhood, often standing out as the “grand dames” of the block.

3. The Fairglen Eichlers (The Modernist Cult Favorite)

Then, there is the dramatic shift. Tucked away in specific tracts like Fairglen, you enter the world of “California Modern.”

The Look: Floor-to-ceiling glass, post-and-beam construction, flat or low-pitched roofs, and the famous open-air atriums.
The Vibe: Indoor-outdoor living at its finest. These homes have a cult following (the “Eichler Crazy” crowd) and are famous for their tight-knit community spirit and block parties.
Where to find them: The Fairglen Tract (a National Historic District) includes streets like Fairglen Dr., Fairlawn Ave., and Booksin Ave.

Michelle’s Market Expertise

“Eichlers in the Fairglen tract often see different bidding wars than bungalows near the Avenue. As a Top Producer, I help clients understand which architectural style holds value best for their specific goals.” — Michelle, Willow Glen Real Estate Expert

Which Style Speaks to You?

Do you dream of a front porch swing, or a glass-walled atrium? In Willow Glen, you don’t have to choose a cookie-cutter life. Let’s tour a few this weekend and see which era feels like home.

💡 Michelle’s Market Expertise

Not every buyer values charm the same way. Not every seller benefits from the same strategy. Understanding architecture + buyer psychology + neighborhood micro-markets is where real leverage lives.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in San Jose, knowing the difference isn’t just interesting — it’s profitable.

About the Author

With over 20 years of experience navigating the fast-paced Silicon Valley market, I provide a strategic, results-driven approach to residential real estate. My career is built on a foundation of deep local expertise and a relentless commitment to my clients’ success, resulting in over $235 million in lifetime sales volume and a consistent ranking in the top 3% of agents in Santa Clara County and top 2% at Coldwell Banker. My expertise has been featured on KTVU Fox 2, Real Producers and the Willow Glen Resident.

A Hyper-Local Expert with Global Reach

I specialize in San Jose, in the neighborhoods of Willow Glen (95125) and Downtown San Jose/Japantown (95112) markets. As a certified Luxury Property Specialist with Coldwell Banker Realty, I combine high-end marketing strategies with granular neighborhood knowledge to help my clients achieve premium results.

The “Tiger” at the Negotiating Table

My clients have characterized me as a “tiger” at the negotiating table who remains “sweet and patient” with my clients throughout the process. I pride myself on being a fierce advocate for my buyers and sellers, ensuring the best possible terms in every transaction, and I strive to be the best Realtor in 95125! This balance, drive, and tenacity have earned me consistent 5-star ratings across Google, Zillow, Realtor.com, and Yelp.

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