An unknown builder built 6326 Lakehurst several years ago, and I went to see it when it was brand new. At the time I was editing DallasDirt for D Magazine, and I know I wrote about this house. He kind of went over the top and then. just. stopped. building. Well, that was a familiar story back in those days.
Unfortunately, I cannot find the story I wrote, but when I walked into Lakehurst, it was like seeing an old college friend or boyfriend after so many years. The vibes just swelled and I felt comfortable, familiar again. Like I might just move into one of the humongo rooms and never leave.
Let’s face it: this is a big house, big mama, a house that is so perfect for a large family: three teenage boys or girls. Or a family with elderly parents who want to live in with them but still have their privacy. This would also be a great home for blended families.
The lot is hefty, but the 11,000 plus square foot home takes up most of it. Yes, I said 11,000 square feet, probably more. That there is less lot and more house delights me to no end: there is enough rooms for flower beds and grass in the front, and a bit in the back. But mostly, in the back, is a stunning swimming pool wedged nicely into the yard with a fountain that soothes the senses. This after a huge, expansive patio porch. Really, if the kids want to throw a football, you have the front yard (where they usually play anyhow) or nearby St. Mark’s. The back of this house is so easy care I bet you could have it ready for a party in 30 minutes flat.
This house, really, is like an insta-party house!
We begin in a huge, super dramatic foyer with a grand, sweeping double stairway. Note the steps are made of marble, both the top and back part of the step. Someone sure put a lot of thought and money into designing and building this home. Can you imagine this room decorated at the holidays?
To the sides, lovely formals — they are formal formals! — and an office. Straight ahead is the family room/kitchen breakfast room. This is where that gorgeous, clean-lined patio beckons. The kitchen sports a huge island, top of the line appliances, including a built in coffee maker! The kitchen was designed with many expensive details, such as the pull out spice drawers, wine cooler, double ovens, huge Sub Zero, and beautifully carved trim on the woodwork. There is marble, marble everywhere.
Off the kitchen is the downstairs master bedroom, which is a true retreat: sitting area, fireplace, access to the pool, and a huge bathroom with a striking vessel tub, shower, furniture vanities, moist and dry sauna, and walk-in closets so large you could make them a second bedroom.
There is also a laundry room downstairs, pantries and closets galore. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms plus a gameroom/living area, and a full theater with elevated seating. Then there is a bonus room! It’s like this whole house is a bonus!
One of those bedrooms is another master with sitting room, gas log fireplace, another gigundo closet and spa bath complete with jetted tub, more furniture vanities. There is also a second laundry room up here and more storage than even God could ask for. The bedrooms are all separated out for maximum privacy. That’s why this is such a perfect house for a large family: your kids are guaranteed to fight less when their rooms have at least 10 feet between them. In fact, they will get fewer germs. Think of the hours of counseling and medical bills you will save money on!
For some reason, the builder of this house — never could remember his name — used Pergo type wood flooring upstairs and on some floors. Go ahead, rip it out and replace, I give you full permission. And if the moldings in this house are a bit too, shall we say, la de dah for your tatstes, do get a great remodeller over and ask how much to plaster over some of them and make them smooth. Cannot be that much.
But don’t touch that marble! 11,000 plus square feet, five bedrooms, five full plus two half baths. Listed with the great Kelly Logsdon Rush at Ebby Halliday for $2,775,000.
