There are a lot of neighborhoods in North Texas that have rather euphemistic names, using terms like “hills,” “bluffs,” and “ranch” that are a stretch worthy of an Olympic gymnast. However, Oak Cliff is truly an area filled with both oak trees and rambling cliffs of stone throughout, and some of the most interesting houses are set into its varying topography with aplomb.
One such example is this listing from David Griffin & Company Realtor Courtney Tauriac. It’s a gorgeous Austin Stone traditional in East Kessler that, while rather unassuming from the curb, packs a punch inside and in the backyard. It’s an obvious choice for this week’s High Caliber Home of the Week presented by Lisa Peters at Caliber Home Loans. Though it’s a beautiful house, what really makes it unique is the large lot, Tauriac says.
“Finding a third acre lot in Kessler Park is a rarity in itself,” she notes, “but to have a pool, outdoor wet bar with large pergola seating area, large yard, and two-car garage all for under $900,000? This home is such a gem!”
We agree!
“From the moment you enter you the Austin Stone home you are overwhelmed by a sense of warmth and calm that resonates throughout the thoughtfully designed home,” Tauriac says. From the vaulted ceilings, designer lighting, open floor plan, and on-trend color scheme with a distinct Bohemian vibe, it’s everything a buyer wants in this market and location. And with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and more than 2,600 square feet, 415 W. Colorado Blvd. can easily accommodate a family.
“The seller, Kate, has an impeccable eye for design,” Tauriac notes. “Her appreciation for individual style and incorporating old with new radiates in each room. She restored the two hanging living room lights, which fit perfectly in the newly vaulted ceilings and are the perfect complement to the original fireplace.”
The living room, which is bright and airy, opens to a formal dining room with a gorgeous chandelier. The dining area then gives way to the completely updated kitchen.
“The kitchen will make just about every heart swoon,” Tauriac said. “Navy blue custom cabinets with brass hardware surrounded by white quartz and marble countertops creates a timeless kitchen ready to host any gathering.”
But design doesn’t get in the way of function in this kitchen, which has loads of storage, dual ovens, a six-burner gas range with griddle, and an eat-in island that adds tons of prep space.
“The Beehive pendants are my favorite,” Tauriac mused. “It’s something unexpected in this 1930s home, yet blends so seamlessly.”
Three of the four bedrooms are on the first floor of the home, including the master suite.
One of my favorite bathroom design trends figures into this updated master bath. The wet area — an import from Europe — is such a great idea. By putting the tub in the same space as the shower, you no longer have to fear splashing or overflow. Go ahead and fill that baby to the top when you take your salt soaks as part of your self-care regimen! It will all drain into the shower drain should you make a small wave when reaching for your prosecco.
As you noticed from the front exterior shot, there’s also a basement level to this home. It’s rare, but not unheard of for homes to have basements in Dallas, though it’s more common in Oak Cliff, where the hills can accommodate a below-ground basement level. This particular basement has a great little guest suite — perfect for in-laws or caretakers — and an additional living room.
The door to the bedroom — a private entrance perfect for a live-in nanny or au pair — leads to the backyard, which has just about everything you could want. A pergola with wet bar and tons of storage, a cozy fire pit for sipping wine on chilly nights, and there’s a completely resurfaced in-ground gunite pool with safety fence already installed!
“It’s the perfect entertaining home,” says Tauriac. And she’s right, because we’re already planning a party in the backyard to celebrate the new buyers. Just make sure to invite your friends at Daltxrealestate.com!
Tauriac has listed this one-of-a-kind East Kessler house for $875,000.
