We’ve had an awful lot of big, white, simplistic architecture over the past few years. So, it’s not surprising that the Old World European look has once again caught our attention. We’ve been missing character and a touch of whimsy. We’ve been missing something that’s not trying to look like everyone else. We’ve been missing something different.
Jimmy Lambert specializes in something different, that’s for sure.
Lambert creates unique homes down to the last detail. They can, of course, be modern, but they also can be a perfect replication of an American Colonial or a Mediterranean villa. However, his Southlake castle is just about the best example of something different you can find.
Lambert owns J. Lambert Custom Homes and has been in Southlake for 38 years. He started a fencing company and paid close attention to the projects of his home builder clients. He enjoyed working with those doing something different. Then, 23 years ago, Lambert realized he was the builder to bring a new level to the concept of doing things in a different way, not only in design but also in construction and customer service.
Lambert had drawn up plans for an Old World European-style castle that looked as if it could be in the English countryside.
“I’m pretty bold and confident in what I design and build,” Lambert said. “If you build something different and build it right, the price doesn’t matter.”
He was ready to break ground when a buyer came along with five young boys. It was perfect timing because they had always wanted to live in a castle. The design fit their dreams, they could select finish-out, and customize it for their family.
“We had a great process,” Lambert said. “I was there for every step, for the slab pour, the inspections, and when we drilled each pier. We went above and beyond with the construction of this house and thought through everything any family member could want. We also provided for things they may not have considered but could want in the future.”
In the best style of Old World castles, Lambert built this home with multiple towers, cathedral windows, hardwood, marble, brick floors, and detailed hand-crafted wood and ironwork.
A Lifetime of Service
One of the many things that distinguish Lambert’s company from others is his continued desire to be involved in former builds because he knows his homes better than anyone else.
“The same guys that worked with me to build this original house are still working with me,” Lambert said. “I have a loyal crew and we know everything about what we build. In this home, there are some things I want a new buyer to call me to explain. I want to show them the options and possibilities that will suit their lifestyle. For instance, one of the turrets is set up to be an observatory. We have it prepared to turn as the stars go by. I treat every homeowner that buys this house like I built it for them. I’m always there for the new owner.”
True to his word, Lambert returned when the house changed hands and added the fantastic faux-painted garage that can fit up to 15 cars. He’ll make time for something as significant as an addition or as simple as a new paint color, and no request is off the table.
The Old World Europen-style castle is now 19,673 square feet with eight ensuite bedrooms, four powder baths, a proper wine cellar, and an accessible home theater with ramps.
“We wanted everyone to be able to use it, “ Lambert said. “It’s a huge room with stadium seating and a full-service kitchen. I also added a commercial elevator with every safety bell and whistle.”
A 1,300-square-foot craft room above the garage can accommodate any hobby imaginable. It’s even vented for a kiln! It would also be an excellent area for multiple people to work from home or a great place to homeschool.
As impressive as the interior of this Old World European-style castle is, the exterior also exceeds expectations. There are multiple living areas, covered patios, and a beautiful grotto-style pool. The 1.5-acre property backs up to a wooded United States Army Corps of Engineers site, which means nothing can ever be constructed behind the home. Bob Jones Park is across the street from the front entry, with a pond, playground, and dog park.
This dramatic dream home has recently been listed by Engel & Völkers Dallas Southlake Realtor Roxann Taylor, who knows a thing or two about unique homes, especially this one. She’s sold it before and has known Lambert for many years.
“You’ll never feel confined in this house,” Taylor said. “You have so much space around you, and it could easily be a multi-generational home.”
Taylor knows most people love a good castle, but they will not live like those in Medieval times, sitting on uncomfortable furniture with floor-to-ceiling family portraits staring at them. She brought in George Bass Stage & Design to showcase how modern castle-living should look!
Taylor has 3716 N. White Chapel Boulevard available for $5 million. Ask her to show you the secret room!
