Few neighborhoods capture the essence of Reno quite like Old Southwest. Tucked just beyond Downtown and Midtown, this historic area blends timeless architecture, tree-lined streets, and a lifestyle that feels both rooted and effortlessly livable. For buyers drawn to character over cookie-cutter design (and proximity without congestion), Old Southwest remains one of Northern Nevada’s most enduringly desirable places to call home.
At HomeGate Realty, we often guide clients here who want a neighborhood that tells a story while still supporting modern life. Old Southwest does exactly that.
A Neighborhood Defined by Layers of History
Old Southwest isn’t a single subdivision. It’s a collection of established residential pockets that developed organically as Reno grew. One of its most notable components is the Newlands Historic District, a roughly 170-acre neighborhood overlooking the Truckee River, long admired for its park-like setting and architectural significance.
What makes Old Southwest special is how these layers coexist. Modest cottages sit near architect-designed homes, early 20th-century craftsmanship blends with mid-century design, and quiet residential streets remain just minutes from Reno’s most active districts.
When Were the Homes Built?
The core of Old Southwest dates from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s, reflecting multiple eras of Reno’s residential development.
In areas like Newlands, homes were constructed steadily from the late 19th century into the post-World War II period. Early development concentrated closer to Downtown, gradually expanding south and west. This progression is still visible today…older, more ornate homes often sit nearer the river and bluff areas, while later Ranch and Contemporary styles appear farther out.
This range of build periods is one of the reasons Old Southwest feels so architecturally rich and visually interesting.
Who Built Old Southwest?
Unlike modern master-planned communities, Old Southwest was shaped by many builders, developers, and architects, not a single production brand.
Key influences included:
- The Nevada Development Company, led by W.E. Barnard, functioned as a community builder: constructing homes, planting trees, establishing deed restrictions, and installing signature stone entry pillars.
- The Newlands Company, which platted and developed multiple additions over several decades, including Newlands Manor, Newlands Heights, and Newlands Terrace.
- Prominent architects, most notably Frederic DeLongchamps, whose work helped define Reno’s early residential architecture and can still be seen throughout the area.
The result is a neighborhood that feels curated rather than manufactured, each block offering its own personality.
Architectural Styles and Home Types
Old Southwest is one of Reno’s most architecturally diverse neighborhoods. Homes here range from cozy and classic to substantial and iconic.
Common styles include:
- Craftsman bungalows with deep porches and built-in detailing
- Tudor and Spanish Revival cottages with steep rooflines and arched details
- Mid-century Ranch homes with wider lots and functional layouts
- Larger legacy properties near the river and bluff areas
- Small multi-family properties such as duplexes and fourplexes, thoughtfully integrated into residential streets
This variety means Old Southwest appeals to a wide range of buyers…from those seeking historic charm to those wanting space, flexibility, or income potential.
Parks, Trails and Neighborhood Feel
Old Southwest does not operate under modern HOA structures with private amenities. Instead, its lifestyle is shaped by public parks, historic streetscapes, and access to nature.
Nearby highlights include:
- Idlewild Park, one of Reno’s most beloved parks, featuring playgrounds, sports courts, picnic areas, water features, and a skate park
- The Idlewild Park Rose Garden, home to thousands of roses and a favorite seasonal destination
- Mayberry Park, offering paved bike paths, river access, picnic areas, and hiking trails
Add in the nearby Truckee River corridor, and Old Southwest offers an outdoor lifestyle without sacrificing central convenience.
Local Amenities and Everyday Convenience
Living in Old Southwest means you’re minutes from some of Reno’s best dining, shopping, and cultural hubs:
- Midtown’s restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques
- Downtown Reno and the Riverwalk District for events, dining, and entertainment
- Quick access to major roadways for easy commuting across Reno and Sparks
It’s a neighborhood that feels residential without ever feeling isolated.
Schools Serving Old Southwest
Because Old Southwest includes multiple pockets with varying boundaries, school zoning can differ by address. However, schools commonly associated with the area include:
- Hunter Lake Elementary School
- Roy Gomm Elementary School
- Beck Elementary School
- Mount Rose Elementary School
- Darrel C. Swope Middle School
- Reno High School, one of Nevada’s oldest high schools, established in 1879
Families are always encouraged to confirm zoning for a specific address, as boundaries may change.
Why Buyers Continue to Choose Old Southwest
Old Southwest attracts buyers who value:
- Architectural character and craftsmanship
- Mature landscaping and established neighborhoods
- Proximity to Midtown, Downtown, and the Truckee River
- A sense of place that feels distinctly Reno
At the same time, buyers should be aware that older homes vary widely in renovation level, and thoughtful due diligence is especially important when evaluating systems, infrastructure, and long-term maintenance.
Considering a Home in Old Southwest?
Old Southwest isn’t about finding any home…it’s about finding the right block, the right era, and the right fit for your lifestyle. At HomeGate Realty, we help buyers navigate the nuances that make this neighborhood special, from architectural details to micro-location insights that aren’t obvious on a map. Contact us today.
HomeGate Realty
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Sources:
- Historic Reno Preservation Society – Newlands Historic District documentation
- Reno Historical Society – Architectural and neighborhood history
- City of Reno Parks, Recreation & Community Services
- Washoe County Parks & Open Space
- Washoe County School District
- University of Nevada, Reno Archives
