On my way home a few weeks ago, I saw an “Open House” sign in front of 2017 Windsor Place in Berkeley Place. And, it was in the middle of the week around five o’clock in the afternoon. Inside I met up with Ruth Story, head of the Ruth Story group, a boutique agency created in 2003 under the umbrella of Keller Williams Fort Worth. Ruth Story is truly a family operation with Ruth’s husband, Rick, specializing in ranch and farmland sales and daughter, Kati, concentrating on new construction like Walsh.
“Odd time for an open house,” I opine.
“We find we pull in more serious buyers during the week, though we still do week end open houses,” explained Ruth.
Inventory in Berkeley Place is famously low, with listings on the market for 60 days or less. And, access to highly rated Lily B. Clayton Elementary School creates a strong draw for young families to this old, Near Southside neighborhood.
A red-tiled roof with corbel-supported deep eaves give the 1925 build a Mediterranean appearance. A covered porch leads to the broad entry. Inside, one is immediately struck by the dramatic offset, honey-colored oak hardwoods which run throughout the ground floor.
The layout of the 3,118-square-foot house is spacious and traditional. A vestibule leads to the living room which opens to the dining room. The fireplace, which anchors the room, is wood burning with a gas starter. Windows marching down the north wall fill the room with ideal, Vitruvian light.
The size of the kitchen comes as a surprise for a house of this vintage, kitted out with newer appliances a large island and abundant cabinetry.
The kitchen overlooks a large family-friendly eating area with views of the side and back yards.
Stepping down from the main floor is a private second living area ideal for a home office, hidden media room, or a fourth bedroom.
The spacious master suite features a large updated master bath and three walk-in closets.
One of the four baths maintains its 1920s vintage ambience with crisp white tiles and cabinets.
The back is overlooked by a raised deck and brick hardscape. A 700-square-foot guest house over the two-car garage offers income potential or housing for an au pair. The house also contains a utility room and full basement.
Ruth Story of Ruth Story Group is offering 2017 Windsor Place for $625,000.
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, HG 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.
