Since houses on one of Fort Worth’s premiere historic streets infrequently come on the market, it isn’t surprising that 1521 Elizabeth Boulevard, is garnering a lot of agent and buyer interest.
“We’ve only officially been on the market since Monday and we’ve already had dozens of showings,” observes Briggs Freeman agent Lisa Logan. Many of the prospective buyers are relocating from other markets and are amazed at the value Fort Worth offers.
The venerable villa sits on a graded lot approached by a flight of steps leading to a terrace which gives the 3,700-square-foot, four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath house a commanding presence. Pleasing symmetry and a naively quaint Palladian motif perched upon a curved overhang give the façade irresistible charm.
On the National Register of Historic Places, 1521 Elizabeth Blvd. and its 1909-1920’s neighbors are protected from demolition or capricious alteration. If you want a closer look at the well-preserved period details, Logan is hosting an open house on Sunday, April 24, from 1 to 3 pm.
Behind the fenestrated front door is an open front hall with sight lines to the back. First impressions are enriched by its period details — original oak floors, moldings, and a clever quarter landing staircase with unique craftsman newel posts. This 1926 gem has much to edify us 90 years later, principally that openness and flow can coexist with partitioned purposed rooms. The large living room, anchored by strong chimney pieces, is flanked by symmetrically placed French windows opening to a side terrace. A smaller sitting room is open to both living room and to a wet bar off the kitchen.
The dining room is as large as one would expect for a house of this era. The two windows situated high on the west wall are add a distinctive craftsman touch. Period floor grates which once brought heat from a coal furnace, still carry air from the modern HVAC system.
The kitchen is vast with an astonishing 35 feet of cabinets. Photography doesn’t reflect the recent upgrade of new stainless steel appliances. Banks of windows flood the room with light. In fact, this house is devoid of dark corners. An elevator located at the bar would be handy for ferrying laundry or suitcases.
The feeling of airy openness is sustained upstairs. A spacious landing practically functions as a room with opportunities to place furniture and seating.
One of the more delightful vignettes is a tranquil sitting area defined by the distinctive Palladian window and original built-in cabinetry.
The four bedrooms are almost identical in generous scale and are served by two Jack-and-Jill, baths frankly in need of an update.
Outdoor living spaces are an additional bonus, with pool and dining pavilion with a fireplace. Even the landscape with mature palm trees, has a vintage appeal.
Well priced by Logan at $589,000, 1521 Elizabeth Blvd. is not expected to remain on the market long.
Eric Prokesh is an interior designer whose work has appeared on HGTV, and 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.
