If you’ve lived around White Rock Lake for long, you’ll recognize this iconic modern farmhouse at 7291 Williamson Road. It’s located just before you make the turn into the lake, out in the middle of a field that backs up to the woods. A few years ago, you might have caught a glimpse of The Dude, who was perhaps more iconic than the house.
When Tara and Bill Durham bought this iconic modern farmhouse in 2010 they also acquired The Dude, a micro-mini pig, who lived happily in the kitchen when he was not out for a jaunt to the lake. “He was really well known,” Tara said. “He would go visit folks on Sunday mornings.” When the Durhams began to think about renovating The Dude’s hang out space, he’d grown to about 200 pounds, and it was time to find him a new home. “He’s living happily on a big ranch now,” Tara said.
The Durhams took a smart approach and lived in the home for a couple of years before starting any renovations. When they had sorted out what worked and did not work for their family, they brought in interior designer Bonnie Achariyakosol, owner of BR Interior Designs, to take this iconic modern farmhouse up a notch — and boy did she. Everything got a refresh, but the big items included the enclosed back porch on the back of the house. It received a complete update, adding usable living space. The kitchen and master bathroom were gutted and completely updated.
“The blue Brazilian Quartzite island was Bill’s idea,” Bonnie said. “He loves color saturation, and the island drove the kitchen design. We gutted it to the studs and laid it out efficiently. We didn’t want it to be over the top, but we also didn’t want it to be boring. The backsplash has a cool shape and texture but doesn’t compete with the island.”
The bathroom renovation is an important lesson for the way homeowners live today.
“It had a gigantic soaking tub,” Bonnie said. “You know no one has time for that anymore! I got rid of it and made an epic shower. It is really pretty in the space because the ceiling is pitched to a cathedral point. There is an arched window inside the shower and the light filters in beautifully. We did a pretty blue tile because again, Bill likes color. The room is all blue and white with a mixture of textures and shapes.”
The Durhams were thrilled with the results of their renovations. And no, they have not missed the tub for a second. “We are not bath people who have the time for that,” Tara said. “We call the shower the car wash. The kids love it.”
“I’m pleased with the way the house came out,” Bonnie said. “It’s very tranquil and fresh, but it has some great molding, so it’s not stark, it feels comfortable.”
Contrary to what you may have been hearing about the selling market, it is not softening. Not in Dallas. Not if you have a flawless, move in-ready, properly priced, magnificent iconic modern farmhouse. I spotted this $1.25 million baby six days ago and it’s already gone under contract! The seller is actually an agent with Compass Real Estate, so if you are looking, I’m certain Tara Durham can help you find your dream home.
Karen Eubank is the owner of Eubank Staging and Design. She has been an award-winning professional home stager and writer for over 25 years. She teaches the popular Staging to Sell class and is the creator of the online course, The Beginners Guide to Buying Wholesale. She loves dogs, international travel, history, white paint, champagne, artificial turf, and homes with personality. Her father was a spy, and she keeps secrets very well. Find Karen at www.eubankstaging.com
