‘Tis the season to tour homes, and the charming Northwest Dallas neighborhood of Sparkman Club Estates is holding a tour December 6-7, 2023 that is not to be missed!
I grew up a mere few blocks from the Sparkman neighborhood, so I had many friends with houses on the magical treelined streets like Duchess Trail, Princess Lane, and Lancelot Drive. I spent many a summer day at the Sparkman Club pool that anchors the neighborhood and is the reason for this year’s tour. What better way to prepare for the holidays than in a neighborhood that is a childhood dream come true?
Ten incredible homes will be available for touring over two nights, with a reception at the clubhouse, and funds raised will go to preserve this close-knit neighborhood’s beloved pool facility. The pools — one for children, one main pool with a lap section, and one adult pool — were built in the late 1950s when Sparkman Club opened. It’s gone through minor renovations over the years, but it needs to be rebuilt because of plumbing issues and city code changes for safety.
Speaking as an adult who cherishes memories of both the neighborhood and the pool, I know I’ll be headed out to the tour — both for the opportunity to take in this lovely mix of midcentury and newly constructed homes and to support the preservation of a beloved neighborhood pool.
The Neighborhood
Sparkman Club Estates has long been one of North Dallas’ most coveted neighborhoods, with its mature trees, cul-de-sacs, and classic American feel. Residents rave about the sense of community and the way the club truly brings the neighborhood together.
The annual Fourth of July parade, the holiday parties, the chili cook-off — this is a neighborhood where people know each other. Kids ride their bikes down the street, friends meet for a round of pickleball or tennis, and families picnic in the park.
3357 Regent Drive
The homeowners grew up in Sparkman and when their favorite house went on the market, it was perfect timing for them. The interior has been completely remodeled and features an open kitchen to the living areas, which compliments the owners’ entertaining lifestyle. The family loves the converted garage that gave them the ultimate “man cave” for family and friends to gather.
3322 Galahad Drive
Purchased and completely updated in 2018, this original Sparkman home may look traditional from the outside, but inside? Not so much. A newly relocated fireplace can be viewed from two living areas, a modern kitchen, and an elegant master bath, plus a newly added pergola all feature interesting finishes and accents. The home has lots of original art and wall decor, antiques, family heirlooms, collectibles, and other “interesting stuff” that has been lovingly styled by its designer owner.
“For the first time in my life, I was able to pick out everything I liked that would suit this home in a fresh, new way.”
3325 Valiant Drive
The current homeowners bought this house in 2015 after falling in love with the beautiful cul-de-sac, majestic trees, and the friendly street feel that allows kids to play outside. The house was built in 1961 and has been updated by previous owners. The current owners recently remodeled to an open layout for entertaining. They also added outdoor features such as painting the brick, a front yard porch, and a backyard gazebo. The homeowners — the Pankos — are excited to continue updating and expanding their beloved home to make it the perfect home for them.
I spoke with Jessica Panko about what drew her to Sparkman Club Estates and she told me a great story. She and her husband were looking for a house in Dallas after a move to the suburbs had found them spending most of their time driving back to the city to visit their friends.
“We didn’t really know our neighbors,” Panko told her Realtor. “If they don’t have swings in the front yards I don’t even want to look there.” What if they have swings in the backyard? Nope. “It had to be the front. She thought I was crazy, but that’s how we found Sparkman.”
I get it. Swings in the front yard mean a few things: there are kids, they feel safe to play in the front yard, and they welcome friends to play with them there.
“I don’t even know where my kid is half the time, but I know he’s here in Sparkman playing with friends, or at someone’s house. I love it.” Reminds me of my childhood.
The Tour
The Sparkman Club Estates Home Tour will be held Wednesday, December 6, and Thursday, December 7, 2023. Check-in begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Sparkman Clubhouse at 3366 Duchess Trail, Dallas, Texas 75229, where you can enjoy a festive drink and bite prior to the tour. Five different homes will be held open each night. You can purchase single tickets for each night at $50, or a ticket for both nights at $75.
Purchase tickets and get more information here: Sparkman Club Estates Home Tour.
