rumour , rummer or eichler

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Eichler homes are from a branch of Modernist architecture that has come to be known as "California Modern," and typically feature glass walls, post-and-beam construction and open floorplans in a style indebted to Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright. Eichler exteriors featured flat and/or low-sloping A-Framed roofs, vertical 2" pattern wood siding, and spartan facades with clean geometric lines. One of Eichler's signature concepts was to "Bring the Outside In," achieved via skylights and floor-to-ceiling glass windows with glass transoms looking out on protected gardens, patios, and pools. The homes had numerous unorthodox and innovative features, including post-and-beam construction, Tongue and Groove decking for the roof, concrete slab floors with integral radiant heating, sliding doors and cabinets with sliding doors, and a standard second bathroom located in the Master Bedroom. Later models introduced the famous Eichler atriums, an entrance foyer designed to further advance the Eichler concept of integrating outdoor and indoor spaces.

Eichler homes were airy and modern in comparison to most of the mass-produced, middle-class, postwar homes being built in the 1950s. At first, potential home buyers (many of whom were war-weary ex-servicemen seeking convention rather than innovation), proved resistant to the new homes, and Eichler faced competition from other developers who used elements of Eichler homes in watered-down, more conventional designs later called Eichler-esque. Though fresh and exciting, Eichler homes never achieved large profits for their creator.

This week in Portland, Oregon the NW builder Robert Rummer now many years retired will be at a one night only event discussing the homes that he built in the Portland area that were copies of the Famous Joseph Eichler developer in California. For those of you that are into the modern 50's home. come listen and learn more about your home.

Meet Robert Rummer, Mid-Century Modern Builder
November 4, 6pm
$20 Suggested donation at the door
Light refreshments served
RSVP by November 1
Join Mid-Century Modern home builder Robert Rummer and Becca Cavell of THA Architecture Inc. for a special interview with the man behind beloved local landmark "Rummer" homes. One night only. Sellout expected.

All donations go to Street Of Eames' after-school programs for homeless children. For more information, visit streetofeames.org.

A Mid-Century Modern Master

To MCM enthusiasts in the Portland area, Robert Rummer is a local legend. Don't miss your chance to meet the man himself and see examples of his work from his own archives.

Builder of 1960s-'70s residences in neighborhoods mostly west of downtown, Mr. Rummer's homes have acquired iconic status for their focus on bringing the outdoors inside.

Renown for their dramatic, yet elegant mixture of high ceilings, warm wood paneling, and full-length glass walls, "Rummer" homes are especially prized by lucky homeowners for their gorgeous glass-enclosed atriums.


PS. Chase if you are reading my blog. This is for you.

take care,

John