The Eichelberger Family Beach House, located at 1556 Mokulua Drive, Kailua, Hawaii, offers a fascinating glimpse into Lanikai’s transformation from a secluded beach retreat into a modern residential neighborhood. Its story weaves together the history of the Cooke and Eichelberger families, architectural evolution, and the changing character of Hawaii’s beachfront living.
1924: The Birth of Lanikai
The development of the Lanikai subdivision began in 1924 when Harold Kainalu Long Castle subdivided his land holdings. Charles Frazier of Town and Country Homes, Ltd. marketed the area as a tranquil vacation spot, ideal for beachside living. The lots sold quickly, and Lanikai soon became a retreat for Honolulu’s elite.
1926-1927: The Cooke Family Beach Estate
Clarence Hyde Cooke, a prominent financier and civic leader in Hawaii, purchased multiple beachfront lots, including what would become the Eichelberger Beach House. By 1926, Cooke constructed his main family house and, over the following years, added guest houses, servant quarters, and a boat house. The original structure was a two-story Hawaiian-style bungalow featuring board-and-batten siding, a double-pitched hip roof, and acid-stained concrete floors.
1944-1951: Transition to the Eichelbergers
After Clarence Cooke died in 1944, his family subdivided the beach estate. In 1951, Harold C. Eichelberger, a prominent businessman and civic leader, purchased the main beach house and surrounding property for $22,500. Eichelberger, known for his leadership at Amfac, Inc. and extensive community involvement, sought to transform the house into a full-time family residence.
1952-1961: Renovation and Modernization
The Eichelbergers undertook significant renovations, modifying the house while preserving its original 1920s charm. Additions included a garage, storage area, and an enclosed lanai to expand the living room. In 1961, the family commissioned Mark Potter, a Potter & Potter architect, to undertake significant modernization. Potter’s design introduced mid-century modern elements, including an open floor plan, large picture windows for ocean views, and sleek plywood interiors. Adding brise-soleils, a spiral staircase, and a curved pergola showcased modernist architectural innovation.
Architectural Highlights
- Original Features (1926): The double-pitched roof, board-and-batten siding, and acid-stained concrete floors reflected Hawaiian bungalow traditions.
- Modern Additions (1961): Potter’s updates emphasized simplicity and functionality, incorporating geometric forms, frameless glass windows, and concrete masonry units (CMUs). The design maintained the home’s connection to its natural surroundings through lanais and open-air living spaces.
Community and Legacy
The Eichelberger family hosted many social gatherings attended by notable figures, including military leaders and Hawaii’s political elite. The house’s design and evolution mirrored the broader changes in Lanikai, which transitioned from a seasonal retreat to a year-round residential community. Despite urbanization, the Eichelberger Beach House has retained much of its historical integrity and architectural significance.
Today
Now owned by the Eichelberger family’s descendants, the house stands as a testament to the layered history of Lanikai and the architectural legacy of its era. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its story for future generations.
Sources
Grune, A. M. R. G. (2013). Eichelberger Family Residence National Register of Historic Places Form. National Park Service.
