“Island in the Air” they called it. Islenair. A fitting name for this San Diego neighborhood perched high above the Chollas Valley. Can you imagine? Nestled among canyons on three sides Islenair feels secluded. Yet it’s a vibrant part of City Heights.
Islenair is more than just houses. It’s a designated historic district. Its story begins in the 1920s. It reflects San Diego’s small house movement. This movement gained popularity after World War I. It continued to be a national standard through the Great Depression and post-World War II.
The homes here are special. They represent a variety of styles. Spanish eclectic designs are common. Minimal traditional and Ranch styles are also present. Each home was built with care. This is evident in the neighborhood’s charming feel. Many houses date from 1926 to 1952.
Islenair wasn’t just a housing development. It was a plan. Developers James Love and William Touhey had a vision. They created a mixed-use subdivision. This included business spaces. It also included areas for semi-business uses and multi-family dwellings. They cleverly used Euclid Avenue to its full potential.
Today Islenair reflects the diversity of City Heights. People from many cultures and ethnic backgrounds live here. This shows the evolution of San Diego. Islenair is unique. It’s the only neighborhood in City Heights to be a City designated Historic Community.
So as you stand here in Islenair feel the history. Feel the sense of community. You are standing in a place built with intention and care. A place with a fascinating past. A place full of stories waiting to be discovered. A true San Diego gem.