The Midcentury Modern ranch began to reach icon status in America in the 1980s. With a decent number of architect-designed 1950s ranch homes in Dallas, it was just a matter of time before we gingerly stepped onto the appreciation bandwagon.
Now that we are fully on board, these homes are very hard to find.
Coldwell Banker Realtor Ed Murchison is the go-to guy in Dallas for all things midcentury. If you covet owning a midcentury ranch, get on his list because he’s always the first to know what’s hitting the market and his latest offering is swoon-worthy.
“I have not seen a Midcentury Modern ranch so intact in years,” Murchison said. “This house is extraordinary for several reasons. It has retained so much of its original detail. The paneled walls are mahogany, and the built-ins have lasted this long without ever being painted. The kitchen is unique as the counters are higher than typical, so it may have been a custom build for a tall person. The other unique thing is the setback is much farther than most homes. It accommodates private gardens on all four sides of the house, so you are always looking out at a garden area.”
This 1954 midcentury ranch was designed by Thomas Scott Dean, whose designs, although not as well known as Cliff May or Ju-Nel, are just as stellar.
“He did some phenomenal houses,” Murchison said. “Most of his houses are in the 1,800- to 2,500-square-foot range, modest sizes, for the everyday family.”
Dean graduated from MIT and formed a partnership with C.H. Jordan in 1953 under the name of Dean & Jordan Architects. He was as much of an academic as an architect and became an associate professor of mechanical engineering at SMU in 1958. Dean worked with builder Gordon Nichols, who was known for his Disney Streets and Sparkman Club Estates work.
This 2,244-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bathroom Midcentury Modern ranch house in Midway Hills is designed with all the living areas opening onto outdoor living space.
“The current owners have changed out the windows to more energy-efficient across the front of the house,” Murchison said. “They used anodized commercial grade windows because they wanted the expansive view opened up. They also replaced the roof with a standing-seam metal one and created beautiful gardens.”
This is one of those rare opportunities, so don’t be surprised if this Midcentury Modern ranch at 10247 Rosser Road is already under contract when you call.
Not only are these hard to find, but the list price is also a very reasonable $698,000. Don’t be crestfallen if you miss this one. Just remember to get on Murchison’s list!
