Ah, where are the builders today, capable of packing a world of civilized charm into a mere 1810 square feet? The charm offensive at 4501 El Campo starts at the curb, beginning with the perfectly plumb, artisan stone wall containing hidden sculpted faces and fossils, protectively ringing the 1929 Arlington Heights two Bedroom one and a half bath cottage on the hill.
A run of twelve steps with a landing midpoint, convey you to the arched entrance of the corner lot house which faces El Campo and Western Aves with near twin fronts. A view of downtown Fort Worth can be glimpsed from the east (Western Avenue) side. Architectural grace note details persist in spades upon opening the front door. A high barrel vaulted ceiling caps the light drenched living room sustaining the agreeable first impressions. Original hardwood loots run throughout.
And here I reveal my designer hat, or am I simply wearing my heart-on-sleeve? This craftsman style which, judging from the HGTV shows, is what old house lovers seem to be embracing these days, has clearly been well loved. Only three owners in its nearly 90 year life who have mercifully refrained from mucking about with the original floor-plan, not that there is or was any need. Unlike many houses of this vintage, it is generously fenestrated and as “open concept” as a period bungalow gets.
To the right of the living room, behind paired, modified nine light doors, is an angle vaulted sitting room with its own fireplace. It gives on to a small dining room with a large opening to a spacious kitchen. There is a clear unobstructed site-line from the enfilade of kitchen-dining room-sitting room, all ideal for family living.
The large kitchen, with taller ceilings than the dining room, partially updated, might tempt a buyer into a someday cosmetic redo, but is perfectly functional as is. The oversized vent-a-hood could certainly top a professional scale range and the fridge wall could accommodate additional cabinets.
The Master is large and well lit with 6 windows and door to the patio which wraps the house. The half bath is centered between 2 closets unusually roomy for a house of this date.
The full bath has been tastefully updated respecting period. Marble hex tile floor and complimentary marble subway tile which lines the tub-shower are among the well chosen embellishments. The second bedroom is patterned with distinctive swirl stucco walls and has a wall containing a bank of storage.
Though vacant now, being used for guests, the back house complete with kitchenette and separate bedroom and bath is move in ready and could be a source of income (hello, AirbnB!) . Tall enough for an RV, covered parking attaches to a two car garage.
Offered at $329,000.00. Listing Agent Carley Moore, Briggs Freeman
Eric Prokesh is an interior designer whose work has appeared on HGTV, in books and publications including D Home, Southern Accents, House Beautiful, and House and Garden. In January 2005, HG named Eric one of the 50 tastemakers in America and D Home has included him as one of Dallas’ Best Designers for 10 years. Having lived most of his life in Dallas, he now calls Fort Worth home and is one of our experts on beautiful Fort Worth Dirt.
