Redlands is one of the great citrus empires of California, it’s also a city that is filled with gorgeous homes. Most of the houses you’ll stumble upon are grand Victorians, Spanish Revivals, and Mid-Century Moderns, but there is one narrow street that looks like something out of France, this is Normandie Court, and it is one of Redlands’ historic districts.
Nicknamed “Gnome Village” or “Munchkinland” the street consists of 16 French chateau inspired homes that were all built in 1926 by F.E. Carson and C.R. Hudson. Originally built as rentals, the homes came with full landscaping, and were available furnished or unfurnished. The quaint cul-de-sac contains three different styles, with the most dynamic of them all being the one featuring a turret style entry. The homes range from 800 to 1200 square feet, and have a detached single car garage. However the garages are on the narrow side, and many modern cars do not fit inside, so most residents use them for storage.
By 1949 the rental terms ended, allowing them to be purchased, however some have remained rentals. Today many of the residents have embraced the “Gnome” moniker and feature gnome flags and statues in their front yards. Sadly one of the homes burned down, with only the garage remaining. Today it sits as just a small patch of grass. It would be amazing to see it rebuilt one day!
While roofs aren’t initially an interesting subject, I have to admit I loved two of the roofs, one which featured a wavy, very Disneyland-esque roof, and another used singles that were printed to appear rounded, adding a layer of whimsy.
In 2018 one of the homes was featured on the DIY Network’s Restored (a show I adore, and features many Redlands area homes) and is available to watch on Discovery+ and Max. Later the home was awarded one of Redlands Area Historic Society’s Heritage Awards.
As Redlands is home to so many wonderful homes, I’m contemplating sharing more in the future. Let me know if that is something you’re interested in seeing by commenting blow!
Find yourself transported at West Clark Street and Normandie Court in Redlands. If you stop to walk through please remember these are privately owned homes and be respectful.
What’s Nearby?
Redlands Vintage Shopping Guide
Sources
“F.E. Corson & C.R. Hudson Built Home.” Redlands Area Historical Society, 11 June 2018.
Monk, Bobbe. “Welcome to Munchkinland.” Redlands Daily Facts, 17 October 2007.