Dallas real estate hounds, take note: One of the few French Eclectic masterpieces from renowned architect Charles Dilbeck just hit the market, in the Hollywood Heights-Santa Monica neighborhood. Bonus for families with young kids: It’s near Lakewood Elementary.
This piece of Dallas architectural history has great curb appeal; in fact, it’s affectionately referred to as “The Castle” by the neighbors. It’s a cozy 1,400-plus square feet, with three bedrooms and one-and-a-half baths.
But what it lacks in size, this charming storybook house makes up for with Dilbeck’s trademark details.
The home has been preserved in all the right places, including original stained glass windows, hardwood floors and custom cabinetry.
“I think the buyers will know from the moment they open the door that they are embarking on something special,” says Keller Williams listing agent Cerissa Lair. “From the multiple curved staircases and vaulted, arching cathedral-like columns to the formal dining overlooking the deep, private backyard, it’s truly magical.
“The exterior is grand and majestic, like a French Eclectic usually is,” Lair adds. “When you walk inside, however, the quaint kitchen feels more like it belongs in a French farmhouse. And the entry and living areas are reminiscent of an old Roman Catholic church.
“Dilbeck broke the mold once again on this Vivian Avenue beauty.”
The home has been preserved in all the right places, including original stained glass windows, hardwood floors and custom cabinetry. It also got a practical facelift in 2012, including new roof, water heater, breaker box, AC unit and plumbing upgrades. Stainless steel appliances were added to the kitchen in 2014.
Although the architect worked in several styles, Dilbeck homes can often by identified by elaborate details in both the chimney and brick layout on the exterior, along with large porches, and this house is no exception. Thanks to his brilliant use of asymmetrical massing, the modest home appears quite grand. This may have been intentional, as Dilbeck was passionate about creating homes for the middle class, helping them to achieve the “American dream” of homeownership.
Inside, Dilbeck made the most of the small space. Downstairs, an elaborate fireplace draws you into the cozy living room, and vaulted columns lead to one of two winding staircases. Natural light pours into every room, including the bedrooms, where soaring ceilings ensure the spaces feels bright and unconfined.
Considering how hot the local real estate market is right now — and the $335,000 price point — anyone interested had better act fast. It’s a chance to own a piece of history — and have a really cool roof over your head.
6922 Vivian Ave., in the Hollywood Heights-Santa Monica neighborhood, is one of Charles Dilbeck's only French Eclectic homes.
