With lot values north of $1.5 million, a new build with all of the modern must-haves is something of a rarity in the heart of old River Crest. And driving by, you might not immediately identify 701 Alta Drive as a new build, set as it is within old growth trees, its traditional front politely blending with its older neighbors.
Its good manners are sustained behind the front door. Satisfying symmetries and gratifyingly classical proportions prevail throughout. Restraint and discipline are also words that spring to mind. In fact the 8,284-square-foot, six-bedroom, and six-full-and-two-half-bath home’s size comes as something of a surprise.
The color scheme is a tonal play of crisp whites and grays, and material choices are rich but controlled for color congruity. The plan, conforming to the current taste, is, invariably open with a sight line extending to the back, but not so open that there are no walls for furniture placement. Oak hardwoods run throughout with a chevron pattern defining the front hall. 
The front living area with a marble wood-burning fireplace, if a bit small, should be read as part of a suite which includes a handsome study behind pocket doors. The unique vaulting of the study is more subtle and appealing than photographs render.
Studying the ample dining room is a revealing exercise in decoding the house. The raised-panelled dado and ceiling of minimalist four crossing beams suggest tradition, but over-scaled doors and openings contradict with modern murmurs, leaving homeowner and decorator abundant territory for design discussion.
An expansive kitchen with island and peninsula, giving in to a massive great room, by virtue of dedicated square footage mark the true heart of the downstairs.
Kitchen appliances are naturally a supersized 48-inch Wolf range and 36-inch twin Sub-Zero freezer and refrigerator. Somewhat unique to River Crest, where lots tend to front the country club, 701 Alta backs up to eighth hole of the River Crest Country Club golf course, viewed past pool from the great room and master bedroom. A private guest bedroom is located off a hall from the kitchen.
The master bedroom is canopied with an airy vault, which springs from a surrounding tray giving an impression of dramatic space while maintaining a human scale. The end of the long room is capped with the house’s third fireplace.
The master bath, lavishly revetted in marble slab, tile, and mosaic, boasts twin vanities and water closets. A slipper tub nestles in its own elevated alcove. Centered in the room is a pass-through shower with body jets and steam. The adjoining closet has a separate roomt housing the brains of the smart house.
The view from the upstairs landing is a reminder of the home’s architectural literacy and polite proportions. Centered in the upstairs hall is another commodious living and entertaining area, complete with a wet bar that can be completely closed off with paired pocket doors.
The media room — a mini three-tier theater — is literally wired for (Dolby) sound. Though the second floor is served by two staircases, there is an elevator as well, a welcome extra for shifting luggage for a long trip. In addition to the remaining four bedrooms, some with balcony access, the inventory of extras completing the second floor includes a game room/work-out room, an open, parentally supervisable computer area, and second laundry.
The outdoor stone hardscape integrates seamlessly into the pool and respectfully incorporates the mature trees.
This classic and modern smart home at 701 Alta is listed at $5.199 million by agent Betsy Barnes of Williams Trew.
Eric Prokesh is an interior designer whose work has appeared on HGTV, 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.
