History of Oakland Terrace

Streets were planned with great care, respecting the rolling contours of the land and the large native trees. Spacious lots vary in size, shape and elevation throughout the neighborhood. Each lot was sold separately to an individual or to an approved custom homebuilder that then constructed homes to satisfy specific owner requirements. Deed restrictions ensured that the homes built here were of high quality and that the neighborhood was completed as planned.

More than ten custom homebuilders worked to construct homes, one by one, for individual buyers over an eight-year period. Homes were designed and sited to relate to one another enhancing privacy, maximizing the openness of the spacious lots and to receive prevailing breezes. The design of each home is unique and no two homes are alike. A number of the original owners reside in the homes that they built here for themselves almost 40 years ago.

Description of Homes

There are a variety of home styles in Oakland Terrace neighborhood ranging from traditional, Spanish influence, oriental to contemporary styles. Sizes range from spacious single story homes with three bedrooms and two baths to one-and-a-half story homes with five bedrooms and three baths. Homes are built on pier and beam foundations with 90 percent brick exteriors and with two-foot wide roof overhang for sun protection. Masonry wood burning fireplaces add charm to the rooflines of the homes and are regularly enjoyed by residents during chilly winter months.
Many homes are award winning “Blue-Flame Homes”- featuring all gas appliances, outdoor grills and gaslights. Decorative details grace the exterior of the homes including custom wrought ironwork, millwork, and brickwork.
Interiors are well appointed with marble and terrazzo-tiled foyers, plaster moldings, decorative ceiling and wall finishes custom solid wood “built-in” kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. Mahogany, Ash and Birch paneled Dens have sliding-glass doors to outdoor patios to facilitate indoor-outdoor living year-round.
Well-maintained gardens adorn many neighborhood homes. All of the homes have two car-attached garages and additional on-site parking for four or more cars. The beauty of the natural surroundings has been enhanced through the years by planting and nurturing of specimen trees and shrubs that are now mature. Many glowing gaslights and lampposts grace the neighborhood at night.