There are about 3,000 Streng homes in the Sacramento area, and I just finished appraising one recently. I have valued quite a few Streng homes through the years since they show up in many local communities.
You may be wondering what in the world a “Streng” home is, so let me break it down in a nutshell. A Streng home is a mid-century modern (MCM) home built by the Streng Brothers and designed by Carter Sparks. Strengs have a modern feel to them, lower pitched roofs, high windows, few windows in front, skylights in many cases, and they often have terrariums too. Strengs were influenced by Bay Area builder Joe Eichler.
Here is a photo of a Streng home in Elk Grove:
An article from “The Beam Guy’s” website helps give insight into Steng homes.
The Streng Brothers seemed to have had an almost intuitive grasp of where the valley was headed, and what was needed. The enclaves are not sprawling, endlessly repeating, cookie-cutter tracts – they’re neighborhoods. Some (River City & Evergreen Commons) even include private parks that foster a safe and family friendly place to create that all-important sense of community. These homes were affordable, and the Streng Brothers fought for and received FHA approval — a legacy that is still profoundly shaping these lovely neighborhoods. Many are still filled with teachers, professors, and a variety of other professionals. Several have neighborhood associations with an online presence — filled with photos, upcoming events, residents’ stories, and even favorite recipes (see the links on the far left).
Although categorized as mid-century modern (a.k.a. MCM, Postwar Modern, or California Modern), deserving of historic note and preservation, these homes truly were forward looking. They fit today’s “modern” lifestyle seamlessly. The Streng Bros. worked with Carter Sparks to create a home, uniquely suited to the hot Sacramento valley: interior atriums domed with tinted acrylic to block heat, exposed aggregate flooring enhances cooling, open living areas allow free flowing AC, and lots of natural sunlight without the “hotbox” effect. Moreover, these homes provide a private retreat from the hectic 21st century world, with front exteriors that are setback and substantially closed-off from the road, and back exteriors with lots of windows and sliders that tend to open into beautifully landscaped backyards and patios.
Here are some relevant links in case you’re interested in Streng properties.
Blog cataloging restoration of an Eichler home in Land Park
Eichler Network
Floor Plans for Streng Homes
Modern Valley Blog
Pictures of Streng Houses on Flickr
Sacramento Bee Article
Sacramento Mid-Century Modern Tour
Streng Brothers Homes
If you live in or have lived in a Streng home (or would like to), I’m curious to hear your thoughts about Strengs. What attracts you to the design? What do you like most? Anything you don’t like? Or if you’re in real estate, have you sold many Strengs? In your mind, what is the perception among buyers for Streng homes?
Thanks Ryan, this was very informative and useful
Thanks, Keith.
Ryan, Great article and I love the links. I grew up in a Steng in Davis. My parents bought it new 1967 and I remember all of the other houses being built around us. 9 years ago my wife and I bought one in Foothill Farms, South Overbrook. We love it! The simpleness of the architecture make for a great setting for our art collection, does not compete at all. We also love that we can have privacy in the front of the house and still have lots of light. We don’t like not having more crawl space in the ceiling. There is not enough insulation for the summers. I think the fronts of the strengs are so much more inviting than the Eichlers. The Eichlers have a great wall in front that I think is ugly.
Hi Tony, thanks for sharing your perspective. It’s always good to hear directly from Streng owners on the pluses and minuses of owning a Streng. You are so right about art fitting nicely with the architecture. Strengs do feel a bit more artsy anyway since they are not your typical ranch single-story house. I bet your place looks nice. I followed your link and it looks like you are an artist yourself.
I spent many of my growing up years in the house next door to Tony Natsoulas’ house. My folks bought it in the mid 60s and kept it until 2007. I love looking at the photos of the houses and reminiscing of years gone by and the fun of growing up in that neighborhood. One thing I remember distinctly was the front door of our house. It is so tall and was painted a bright orange! Glad to have found this site.
Thanks so much for sharing Stephanie. I appreciate it. There is something about tall doors and bright colors. Yesterday an agent showed me an incredible MCM home she is going to list. The architecture is stunning on some of these homes.
Just purchased a Streng home in Carmichael and LOVE IT!! Insulation is fantastic. Cool in Summer Warm in Winter. Contractors opened up main room by knocking down a wall and now it is just this beautiful Great Room with Atrium and tons of light. I love it when delivery person comes to the home not expecting what is inside and says ” WHOA! ” These homes are Cool! Great fun! Just wish that someone would build homes like this today.
Victoria, I’m so happy to hear that. Congratulations on your Streng home. I really like the Great Room concept and it sounds like it’s working for you. Enjoy and thanks for the comment.
I missed this post until I searched “Streng homes” after getting approved yesterday to lease a Streng home – woohoo! As you know, we have the furniture to fill it – it’s been a dream to live in one – and who knows, the owner may decide to sell to us some day. 🙂
We love the light, the clean lines, the integration with nature and the outdoors- either with huge windows to lush garden views and/or plant-filled atriums. And they were built for the climate – very comfortable year-round.
I’m very happy for you, Sharia. Congratulations.
I had the opportunity to walk into a Streng home after having just left a Randy Parks home in the Cottage Oaks area. The difference in the interior temperature on a 95 degree day was remarkable. The homeowner in the RP home had not used her AC all day and it was perfectly comfy inside. The Streng was stifling, to say the least and the occupants had been home for a while.
Very interesting, Bill. Thanks for the insight. I wish I lived in a house where I didn’t have to turn on the AC. 🙂
I just purchased a Streng home is Davis this summer…I love it! I couldn’t quite put my finger on why it was so appealing to me when I first looked at it, but it just spoke to me. It is a two bedroom, one bath, but has 1400 sq feet of living space…and it backs to the green belt and a beautiful lake on Northstar Park. The front has large windows with a wrapping window seat with storage inside all three seats, but my favorite feature is the imposing double-sided fireplace in the middle of the house that separates the living room from the office…with a massive brick chimney leading up to a soaring 14 foot ceiling at the top with windows on all sides at the roof line…very dramatic! And the two skylights in the kitchen and at the end of the hallway let in ample natural light…I can see the trees from every room in the house. So far this is the best home I’ve owned. I love coming home everyday 🙂
I love your description. I can see why the house was so appealing to you. The Northstar area is very nice too. It sounds like you picked a winner. Thank you for the comment.
I grew up in a Streng home and I am just curious where the house in the above picture is located because it looks exactly like the house across the street from my childhood home.
Hi Rebecca. It’s been a while since I’ve wrote this post, so it’s hard to remember exactly. Though since I did mention Elk Grove, it would be somewhere in the vicinity of Superb Circle since there are some Strengs in Elk Grove right around that street. I’d be curious to hear if this is the street you are thinking of. Strengs really are all over the place.
Ryan, thank you SO much for this blog post! There are several friends that I can point to this post for great info when I try to explain what a streng home is!! Somebody mentioned the Randy Parks homes and I would love to see you write something about them, too! I think my all time favorite neighborhood is the Evergreen Commons area (just looked at a house on Park Green and I was drooling!!!!) Some of the best kept secrets are Streng remodels!! Thanks, as always, for your most informative blog!!
Thanks so much Maddy. I appreciate it. Maybe I’ll have to do that Parks post one of these days. I agree that there are some really nice Streng remodels out there. There is definitely a sub-culture surrounding Strengs and other MCM homes too.
Hi Ryan:
I’m curious . . . some of the sold half-plex homes in River College Square near American River College are billed as Streng homes. Any idea if this is accurate.?Thanks!
Hi Pettit. Thanks for reaching out. Yes, I believe those are Strengs. You can check out a list of Streng neighborhoods at this link (and you’ll see River College Square is one of them). http://www.strengbroshomes.com/STRENG_NEIGHBORHOODS.html
There are two Streng inspired homes in our desert town right across from each other. One had the atrium removed by the previous owners that covered it up with travertine, and the exterior planters with concrete (the wife hated plants, “why buy the house?” is my question!). The family had never heard about MCM, Streng Bros. or CarterSparks. They were very proud of their “update”, until they were selling the house and realized many buyers thought the indoor atrium/terrarium to be a great feature in the desert.
The other house seems to follow a Mediterranean style decor. Both had the kitchens completely redone a few years ago, getting rid of the direct pathway to/from dining area, but it’s still the same floor plan as that in the Streng Bros. website. I want to track down the history, since they were both built in the 80’s, but we’re hours away from any Streng neighborhood.
I’ve read your article on the value of properties that have been lost the original features that made them distinctive were modified. Would like to know what you think about these “tribute” properties.
Here are the links to each:
http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/415-W-Howell-Ave-Ridgecrest-CA-93555/18910993_zpid/
http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/412-W-Howell-Ave-Ridgecrest-CA-93555/18910982_zpid/
Hi Maureen. Thanks for the comment and the links too. One of the questions we always have to ask if there is a market for Strengs or MCMs in the neighborhood. Some areas tend to fetch a premium maybe or the house simply might sell on part with other homes in the neighborhood. I can imagine an isolated Streng in an area though where there were zero Strengs, and buyers might be left wondering what is going on. Why are there plants inside the house? Was this popular during the Brady Bunch era? 🙂 A friend just bought a Streng, and he was mortified the previous owner had altered the original feel of it, though his wife wants to “modernize” it so to speak. In short, we know something is valuable based on the comps. What story of value do the comps tell? Is there a value premium for original? Or are buyers wanting a total remodel inside? The proof is in the market.
Thanks for the links. I appreciate it. I actually personally like the house much more with the atrium. The other one just doesn’t have the same Streng charm to me. 🙂
Just bought a Streng home and interested in removing the 2 skinny posts that support the 4″x12″ beams. I would think if they had used a single beam piece of wood instead of joining the two at the posts, the posts would not have been necessary. Got a saddle cleat to join the posts. Any one hear or seen a home where the posts were removed? Interested in your feedback. I will definitely consult a structural engineer but nice to know in advance it has been done before. Nick
Hi Nick. Thanks for reaching out. I’m not sure I’ve seen this, though I bet it’s been done before. You might consider reaching out to “The Beam Guy” too (assuming you are local). I have never worked with him, but this might be up his alley. Your idea of a structural engineer is very key too. http://thebeamguy.com/
Hello!
I recently purchased a mid century modern in Carmichael, CA (12-2017) I lived the home upon first site. I’ve only ever heard of Eichler’s, so was surprised to hear of Streng Mid Century moderns and that MAYBE, I am living in one. How would I determine if this is the case?
Hi Kay. Thanks for reaching out. I might first check the Streng website to see if your neighborhood is included in the listed neighborhoods. According to their list of neighborhoods they built out six communities in Carmichael. Check it out here: https://www.strengbroshomes.com/neighborhoods.html Keep in mind there are both small Streng neighborhoods (usually a few streets or so), but there are also stand-alone custom Streng homes. If you have a stand-alone home it may prove more difficult to find out who the builder was, though I might do the following: 1) Check Tax Records or the Assessor to see who the original owner was (probably the builder); 2) See if you can find your floorplan online as a Streng plan. There are pamphlets found all over the place on various websites; 3) I might Google your address to see if it comes up on any Streng lists. I would think it would have to be a really custom home though to show up on these types of lists. I once searched an address (plus “Streng”) and found a home was designed by Carter Sparks and built by Streng Bros; 4) You can maybe call Streng Bros too.
Hope some of that helps. Let me know what you find. 🙂
We’ve just purchased a Streng home in Wilhaggin that has had one owner since it was built in 1968. We’re about to undergo a major whole house renovation to bring it back to its glory! I’ve loved looking at your blog and reading about these homes; I grew up in an Eichler in the Bay Area and am really excited to have a similar style home here.
Hi KWS. Thank you so much for reaching out. I’m excited for you. There are some stunning Streng / Mid-Century Modern homes in the Wilhaggin area. I wish you the best as you roll up your sleeves for this project. Keep me posted if you have any questions or need something. Best wishes!!
Growing up in Sacramento’s Greenhaven area I recall friends having similar looking Eichler or Streng homes in the area. Of course even in the mid 1960’s as a child I could appreciate the simplicity and elegance of these homes. Now decades later returning to Sacramento to live I’m searching for an affordable Streng in the Wilhaggin area. I’ve noticed an enclave of them close to the American River. I hope I’ll be able to secure one before it hits the market. May require some diligent waking the street and talking to neighbors to let my desire be known. Surprisingly in my research the prices on the various real estate sites show them less in value to surrounding homes. Not sure why? Maybe a bit less square footage? If this message reaches any Streng owner in the area that looking to sell in the near or not so near future please reach out to me.
Appreciating the 1960’s
Grant Dillon
Right on Grant. I hope you find what you are looking for. The price difference could be about size, though it could also be about location as Wilhaggin / Del Dayo sure does change street to street.
For what it’s worth, here are a few Instagram handles to check out relating to MCM properties:
@midmodsacramento
@_sacmodern_ (with two underscores)
@sacramentomodern
And any onlookers can certainly pitch in some handles. That’s off the top of my head.
Best wishes.
Thank you so much Ryan for the Instagram users who post about MCM homes. It’s a visual feast!
Hi Ryan,
We live in the Willhaggin area and our home sounds like a Streng home. Low roof, no real attic. You truly feel like you’re outdoors with the huge windows, natural light and skylights. Do you know how I could find out if it is a Streng home?
Thank you,
Lavaughn
Thanks for the question. I happen to be working late tonight, so I’m glad to help if I can. There are definitely quite a few Streng homes in the neighborhood. One thing you can do is maybe look up Streng Bros online to see if your home is listed. https://homes.strengrealty.com/m/WILHAGGIN I’d also google your address just to see if it’s listed on any other Mid-Century Modern enthusiast type websites. If it’s a custom MCM home, then maybe it is. If it’s more of a tract home, then maybe not. But I would also see if you can find out the name of the model for your home and/or do a search online by the exact square footage of your home to see if there are any original flyers out there to talk about different Streng home models. For instance, if your home was 1624 sq ft, I’d look up something like, “Streng home 1624 sq ft” jut to see if anything comes up. I find people post stuff like this about models and old real estate listings on MCM sites and even places like Flickr (remember that site?). In the past I’ve found some really old documents to help me answer this question. I once used some really old real estate listings from the 1970s to help substantiate a value someone needed for the mid-1970s. I’d certainly consider looking up old real estate listings too just to see if there is any insight there (but take that with a grain of salt). If this is a custom-built Streng, then there might not be a model anywhere online. Anyway, that’s where I’d start. I wonder if there are any clues in Tax Records too based on who the previous owner was? If you PM me the address, I can look it up for you just to see if there is any clue there. Part of me wonders if the county might have information on the builder too. Hope that gives some ideas.