Preservation Highlights

 

Here to Stay!

There are many social and economic benefits to historic preservation and here are just a few of preservation success stories in Palo Alto!  Know of a great preservation success story here in Palo Alto?  Send us a message and let us know!  We'd like to showcase a variety of properties.

Stanford Theater (223 University Ave)

A Cinematic Gem

The Stanford Theater, a locally designated Category 2 property, is an inventive example of its kind, now rapidly disappearing.  Originally known as the Marquee, the theater was built in 1914 by Henry C. Schmidt.  Ten years later, it was renamed the Stanford Theater.  The "new" theater boasted an eye-catching marquee, sumptuous lobby decorations and a fine theater organ - you can still hear an organ play at the Stanford to this day! The theater recently underwent a major renovation and is one of the architectural treasures you'll find downtown. 

Woman's Club of Palo Alto (475 Homer Ave)

Social Center of Women's Rights

Built in 1916, the Woman's Club of Palo Alto combines elements of the Tudor Revival and Craftsman styles, featuring half-timbering, stucco siding and an overall charming appearance.  Designed by Charles Edward Hodges, the Club has always been a center of civic, cultural and philanthropic activity in Palo Alto and continues to encourage women's full participation in both their communities and nation. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015.

HP House and Garage (367 Addison Ave)

The Birthplace of Silicon Valley

The Hewlett-Packard House and Garage, built in 1905, is a two-story, Craftsman style residence with two simple outbuildings, one of which is a small rectangular garage.  William Hewlett and David Packard lived and worked at the residence from 1938 to 1940, the short period when they created their first successful products.  HP became the nucleus for the creation of Silicon Valley, the first high technology region in the world.  The home and garage is now a California Landmark.