Graceful, sweeping, polished: Words that spring to mind on touring this 1961 architect designed residence at 1919 Merrick Street. Architect, Glenn Allen Galaway was trained by legendary New York architect Phillip Johnson and contributed a small but dignified portfolio of houses to Dallas and Fort Worth.
Galaway can’t claim credit for the gorgeous lot with ravine views, but he deserves high kudos for exploiting the site, fitting his design with seemingly effortless aplomb into the splendid environment.
It’s difficult to process the fact that this three-bedroom, three-and-one-half bath house is 57 years old. The residence retains a timeless elegance and benefited from a thoughtful renovation in 2014, respectful of the original design.
To the right of the fireplace, a cantilevered bay with floor-to-ceiling windows brings the outdoors indoors.
A paneled, floating wall divides the living area from a study. The wall houses bookcases on the study side.
The open galley kitchen overlooks an informal dining area and bar. The recent renovation amped up the level of luxury, with more high-end finishes and materials. Appliances are top of the top of the line. And yes, that is slab Carrara marble backsplash.
The dining area has a view of a private court. Strategically placed skylights pull extra light into the interior.
Bedrooms benefit from floor-to-ceiling windows. Large, mature trees and a raised stilted position give the bedrooms the air of a luxurious treehouse.
Bathrooms sport jazzy new hardware and trendy wallpaper. Above, a pricey Quadrille Ikat is the background for a playful shell-framed mirror.
Stairs lead down to an informal living area in the 4,145-square-foot, split-level house. The downstairs den has a second fireplace and a wall of windows opposite the bookcase wall.
The house seems to float in space, supported by skinny stilt. The real prize, of course, is the nearly one-acre lot — a private green oasis. The street view may disappoint at first look, seemingly hiding behind a screen masking the luxury lying within. On closer inspection, one appreciates the subtle way in which Galaway has handled the challenges of the steeply graded lot.
Plans for a pool and guest house from Dallas-based firm Droese Raney and a landscape plan from Archiverde have been drawn up and will be passed on to the purchaser.
The Kris Karr and Kendall Kostohryz at Williams Trew have priced 1919 Merrick Street at $1.6 million.
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.
