As the saying goes, “If you have to ask, you can’t afford it.”
That’s how I felt when I contacted Susanna Gorski, the Williams Trew Realtor who is marketing this incredible Dilbeck. I figured, considering the sought-after location and how beautifully preserved this historic property is, I was about to get sticker shock.
But instead, I was in for a surprise. The sunny driveway, verdant lawn, mature trees, clay tile roof, and adorable turquoise accents just grab your attention. It reminds you of the old motor court hotels doesn’t it? There’s a good reason for that! While this home has great drive-up and tons of personality outside, it’s what’s inside that will floor you.
“It was built in 1940 by Ren Clark, who developed the Western Hills Hotel in Fort Worth,” said Gorski. “He worked in conjunction with Charles Dilbeck on both the hotel and Mr. Clark’s personal home.”
“Ren Clark was an interesting character and spent much of his time as a magician,” Gorski added. “Magical details abound through the house, including the original front door décor that includes a rabbit in a top hat and the card suits.”
Through the front door, it’s completely stunning. The 1.33 acre property at 307 Crestwood has three bedrooms, two full and one half baths, with formal living and dining rooms and two separate guest suites. That’s four bedrooms and five bathrooms total, with 4,259 square feet in the main house and 900 square feet in the guest house. Gorski says the asking price for this unique property is $1.75 million.
Clark also built a stage in the main living area of the home, which had all the showtime accoutrements: lighting, curtain, and even a stage door. Today, the owners use the space an additional living area, which you can see below.
“The home also included a Tiki bar, but it was sold on eBay a few years back, but the gorgeous wall mural of a Tahitian landscape remains,” Gorski said. “It is believed to have been painted by Fort Worth School artist Emily Guthrie Smith.”
The home does have some distinct Dilbeck details, such as the grand, over-sized fireplace, pecky cypress ceiling and supports, as well as exposed brick and plaster walls. “The current owners have lovingly restored and nurtured the unique architectural features of the home, and where they could, have matched Dilbeck details,” Gorski said. “Other special features include hand-cut wood in the living room and molded bricks with rounded ends on the large fireplace and inglenook.”
The kitchen, however, is beautiful and pretty much brand new, updated just three years ago. I do love the shaker-style cabinetry, painted ceramic tile backsplash, and the stainless steel-topped center island. It goes well with the curved banquette the functions as the breakfast nook. Of course, Dilbeck lovers will appreciate the endcap bookcase and the Dutch door.
A master suite addition was done to the home previous to the current owners. The current owners remodeled the master suite just this year, adding in a glamorous master bath with crisp marble, walls of windows with tree views, soaking tub, spacious shower, and enviable his and her closets, says Gorski.
You also have two separate guest quarters, one that is original to the home and then another at the base of the property that has a bed, bath, kitchen, and living area.
If you’re ready to experience this magical, historical, and downright wonderful Fort Worth home, Susanna Gorski can give you a tour.
