This historic Italianate estate is important on so many levels it should take your breath away. Without a doubt, this is one of Dallas’ most significant residences.
Think back in time for a moment. When this home was built in 1923, Dallas was transforming from an agricultural center to a thriving hub of banking, insurance, and of course, fashion with the founding of Neiman Marcus. It was an exciting time, and Dallas was flush with wealthy men invested in the future of this great city.
Those influential men put a great deal of thought and care into the homes they built because those homes reflected their stature, identity, wealth, and place in society. These houses were not just a place to call home. They also served as epicenters of entertainment and deal-making. The future of our city was created in residences like this historic Italianate estate.
Designed And Built to Last
It was designed by one of the leading architects of the era, Englishman Bertram C. Hill. Among his significant work are five residences on Swiss Avenue and the iconic Cullen F. Davis house at 6601 Hunters Glen in Volk Estates. You may remember that beauty sold in January for $21.5 million.
This Italianate estate was built in 1923 for Pickins Burton and is indicative of the importance owners of this era placed on establishing homes that exemplified style and grace. The ceilings alone are masterpieces that include ornate plaster detailing, barrel vaults, and domes.
With only a handful of owners over the years, the 8,866-square-foot, eight-bedroom, 10-bathroom mansion has been meticulously cared for and updated.
I’m delighted the present owner did not fall prey to current interior design trends, because trends don’t last. Classic style does, and they’ve adhered to that beautifully.
In 2010 Rusty Goff Custom Homes added a Texas-size guest house to the property. At 5,403 square feet with five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a powder bath, a kitchen, a living room, an exercise room, a den, and an exquisite indoor pavilion, it gives new meaning to the term guest house. It’s every bit as jaw-dropping as the original mansion.
Ideal for entertaining, the Italianate estate has always been a center of social activity. The Dallas Morning News archives offer insight into parties at the estate for up to 200 people. There are two dining rooms, each of which can accommodate 30 at one table. The living room can seat 60 and the patio 50, with plenty of room left over for dancing.
Presidents, dignitaries, and heads of state have always been hosted in homes of this statue because the owners or their close friends are generally acquainted with them. As we all know, privacy is as important today as it was in the 1920s, and where better to entertain than in a gorgeous private home?
I have it on good authority that multiple United States and foreign presidents have been hosted here as well as prime ministers, ambassadors, senators, members of congress and celebrities. Of course, a lot of that has to do with the present owner, Nancy Collins, the daughter of Congressman Jim Collins. If you are a newbie to Dallas, do some research. The family is well-known for their decades-long involvement not only in politics but also in philanthropy.
Estates For The Past And Future
It’s inspiring to see homes of this stature continue to serve their owners so well because we lose these iconic homes far too often. In researching this Italianate estate, I came across one of the most profound things I’ve read regarding the architectural identity of Dallas.
It was written by Anne Courtin, who served as the first president of the Historic Preservation League from 1972 to 1974.
A city can have an identity even if it’s not consistent in style by retaining facets of its past. Then in the future, you can look back and find references to your history. Otherwise, you become a rootless society.
As we continue to lose more and more of our iconic buildings and homes, we are driving full speed towards being that rootless society. I sincerely hope that whoever buys this significant Italianate estate recognizes that fact and appreciates its history because it’s an honor to live in a home of this stature.
Allie Beth Allman has 3644 Beverly Drive offered for $11.95 million.
