Where to find a spread of incomparable modern glamor, replete with all of the requisite state-of-the-art electronics to run a smart house? Why head west of course.
The gated community of Bella Flora, in the choice Aledo school district, lies in the southwestern-most corner of Fort Worth now a quick commute from town via the Chisolm Trail Parkway. Inside this neighborhood is 7951 Bella Flora Drive — the striking vision of Scott Watson of Flynn & Watson Architects. Its strong horizontal profile hugs the nearly two-acre lot in a Neo-Prairie style, which is both modern and site appropriate, way while the symmetrical central echoes tenants of classical architecture. And a spare repertoire of materials—stucco, gray river rock, and metal roofing, give the house an air of disciplined elegance.
Built only in 2014, the 5,270-square-foot, five-bedroom, six-bath home still has that new house smell and feels completely on trend. Dark polished concrete floors and museum-quality, level-five finished walls and river rock sustains the restrained beauty of the exterior. An open floor plan gives sweeping, uninterrupted views from the front door to back. Custom windows open to a view of the fountain and creek beyond. And belying the belief that modern means boring, fittings and materials border on the opulent. Check out the blingy chandeliers (staying) and the surreal, standout blue agate powder room counter, lit from below.
Human proportions, a bias towards symmetry, and defined-yet-open spaces contradict the cliche that modern means cold. Three living areas allow family life its place and its space.
The gray stone wall that houses the living room’s eco-friendly oil fireplace wraps to define the spacious dining room. Wine storage lit from behind becomes wall art.
The kitchen opens to informal living areas and is defined by a semicircular island topped with exotic marble. The thoughtful layout and top-of-the-line Jenn-Air appliances, which include a five-burner induction cooktop and 48-inch refrigerator/freezer, will please the family chef. A hidden espresso coffee bar is a bonus.
One of the residence’s more unique features is the office/work/studio space, impeccably organized here, but with a garage-type door that can close on works in progress.
The master suite is reached via a long, concealed gallery. The large master is punctuated by a frameless bay window with sitting area that overlooks a private courtyard.
The master bath lies behind an imposing industrial sliding barn-type door. A floor-to-ceiling mirror wall, dazzling chandelier, crocodile Caesarstone countertops, and remote controlled shower are among the glamorous elements adorning the master bath. Grown-ups will appreciate the higher counter height. With its tall ceilings and bordering-on-excess storage, the master closet has ample space for both his and her wardrobes.
Each bedroom and bath has its own singular design scheme that reminds one of a luxury Euro-spa.
High-tech features abound and include Control4 home automation, which commands the LED lighting, sound system, alarm, doorbell, and HVAC system, all of which can be operated on-site or off with a tablet. There is even a USB charging station.
The 1,100-square-foot outdoor living area overlooking the extensive lot flows seamlessly off of the indoor living and is prewired for an outdoor kitchen.
Listing agents Carley J.Moore of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International has priced 7951 Bella Flora at $1.099 million. For this architectural gem in a sought-after area, that’s quite the deal.
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, HGTV 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. His own home on historic Elizabeth Boulevard has been featured in 360 West.
