Located in the Oakland Hills, Hiller Highlands started as inventor Stanley Hiller, Sr.’s estate. In the 1950s, Hiller patented the idea for single-channel underground utilities. However, PG&E scoffed at the idea. Hiller was determined to prove his idea and transformed his backyard canyon into 27 lots with underground utilities. PG&E eventually relented, finally delivering utilities through Hiller’s successful underground channels in 1963, allowing the lots to be sold. It’s an unusual neighborhood, as the houses are built on a steep canyon incline, allowing every house an unobstructed a 180-degree view of the Bay. Though Hiller Highlands is close to the Caldecott Tunnel, any highway noise is buffeted by the canyon’s geography, while allowing residents a quick commute.