Welcome to Surreal Suburbs of the Bay Area

What is a Surreal Suburb? Maybe it's one of those things that you simply know it when you see it. I wanted to create a site that looks at those quirky, idiosyncratic suburban places that somehow stick in your mind through their odd characteristics and uniqueness. They have an almost other-worldy quality thay makes them feel... surreal.

A Surreal Suburb is not necessarily an entire city -- in fact, it's more likely to be a single large subdivision, rather than an entire suburb. These places stick out because they represent strong, individualistic visions on the part of their creators, and are significantly different from their more conventional suburban contexts. Some are experiements or dreams gone awry, representing a particular philisophical trend or interest.

Most (but not all) of the Surreal Suburbs in this first round of surveys date from the 1950's, '60's, and '70's. The period is a common reference point, representing a "new frontier" attitude towards suburban living. Some of these examples represent this attitude carried to an extreme. Being of that time period is not a prerequisite of being judged a Surreal Suburb, however, and over time suburban developments from earlier and more recent times will likely be added to this survey.

Feel free to e-mail with any information, photos, or stories about any of these places. Like the rest of this site, more information will be added over time from all kinds of sources. And send your own suggestions of other Surreal Suburbs!

Bel Marin Keys

A lonely piece of South Florida transplanted to the Bay Area

Fairmeadows, Palo Alto

Eichler Homes' loopiest neighborhood

Westlake, Daly City

Your house is your castle