I bought my place in 2013, drawn by the same 4 pools and greenbelts that attracted buyers in '72. It took me a decade to realize I was living in architectural history connected to the theme parks I love.
Today, Bradford Place stands as a testament to that 1970s vision of dense, community-focused living. While systems are being updated, the core appeal remains unchanged.
Deep Dive into History:
— Hastin Zylstra, Theme Park Historian
The "Ask the Man from Bradford Place" campaign touted convenience and equity. Ads featured sleek, modern interiors and the promise of "only minutes from everywhere!"
Interiors were curated by Carole Eichen, known for her "warm contemporary" style which defined the luxury of 1970s townhome living.
Bradford Place was a brand that stretched across the Southwest, with each location tailored to its environment while maintaining the core "California Townhome" identity.
The visionary behind Bradford Place was Earl G. Kaltenbach, Jr., whose career spanned from Hollywood set design to master-planned cities.
Kaltenbach was an Art Director for Disneyland's original 1955 Tomorrowland! Working under legendary designer John Hench, he helped craft the futuristic optimism of the atomic age.
This experience informed the "Futuristic Living" branding of Bradford Place, utilizing high-density layouts and innovative "Gold Medallion" all-electric systems.