Les Owens of LRO Residential has been involved with the Parade of Playhouses since 2009. It was the year his son was born.
Of course, he was already familiar with the Dallas CASA fundraiser — he’d seen the houses on display at NorthPark Center for years. But it took one of those rare moments where the professionally installed lightbulb went off. He was a new father and a professional contractor, he knew his son would have advantages that not every kid has, and this was the perfect opportunity to put his toolbelt to work. For good.
He assembled a volunteer team of subcontractors and set up a palette at the site of one of his custom homes. They used the excess materials from the big house on the little house and came right out of the gates with a stunner.
Over the years, LRO’s method has stayed the same.
Due to the fact that these houses have to be set up inside the Center, there are size restrictions. Owens said they learned early on to build out a palette to the maximum size and then create the house on top. They frame it like a real house, use drywall, brick, and stone, and it’s literally a smaller version of whatever style and design is trending that year. Owens said by building them to these standards, they should not only last forever, but they’ll make it through the one or two necessary moves with ease as well.
LRO Residential typically builds in the Park Cities and Preston Hollow neighborhoods, and this year the big deal is a cedar shake roof at one of their custom homes. Likewise, that’s the highlight of their playhouse, too.
A Months-Long Process
Since LRO participates every year, they get started early in January and February and start kicking ideas around. Architect Brian Easley has been a huge help. Owens pointed out that the Parade of Playhouses typically takes place around the Fourth of July so they stick with classical styles like cottages with a little Americana flair.
LRO is the longest-running Parade participant at 12 years, and they’re currently the only residential builder. Owens has pledged a house as long as his kids are in school, and his playhouses are always a crowd favorite.
Back to The Parade Grounds
This year, all nine playhouses in the parade will return to NorthPark Center (vs. last year when it was a hybrid of onsite and online). LRO’s will make its debut on Friday, June 25, for a special preview. The remaining playhouses will hit the scene on July 9 and be on display until July 25. Crest Auto Group will again serve as Presenting Sponsor and investment firm KDC will act as Parade Grand Marshall.
This is the 26th year Dallas CASA’s signature event has taken place. All proceeds go directly to Dallas CASA, a local organization that provides advocates for children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are living in the protective care of the state.
If you’d like to learn more, check out dallascasa.org. It’s an incredible organization doing truly incredible things. Even if you’re not interested in a playhouse there’s always an opportunity to get involved.
