Your Expert Guide
French Streets: A touch of Versailles deep in the heart of Texas
There are so many great places to live in Dallas that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.
---
One drive through the French Streets, and you’ll immediately understand why this prestigious Highland Park neighborhood is so beloved.
“It’s just objectively beautiful, with endless oak trees, azaleas galore, and beautiful homes in all shapes and sizes — and, of course, the incredibly manicured landscapes that evoke the symmetry and elegance of Versailles,” say real estate professionals Noora Bass and Kathleen Hutchinson. “Each street offers something completely different and alluring — it makes you want to stroll house by house to feast on every unique property. It's really that dreamy!”
Located south of Mockingbird Lane, between Preston Road and the Tollway, the French Streets are not only known for their exquisite sophistication, but also for their close-knit community and Texas hospitality.
“Families still bring cookies and flowers to welcome new neighbors and children still walk in clusters to Bradfield Elementary in the morning,” say Bass and Hutchinson. “Residents take great pride in their homes, and that is evident not just in upkeep and attention to landscape and finishings but also in the festive displays during Christmas, Halloween, Easter — you name it. Everyone goes all out to add spirit to each holiday."
The French Streets are also tethered to one of Dallas' greatest amenities, Highland Park Village, so world-class luxury shopping and wonderful dining is just a short walk away. “It’s truly a distinct and idyllic neighborhood,” the pair says.
“We are often guiding others to make the biggest financial investment of their lives, and I am so grateful to be a part of the magic,” adds Bass, who has lived in more than five cities, including abroad, but loves calling Dallas home.
Bass and Hutchinson offered up a few of their personal favorites about life in and around the French Streets. Here's their guide to the area:
Where to eat & drink
Hutchinson has long been the go-to girl in her circles for fashion, real estate, restaurant, and travel recs — and she and Bass know the French Streets offer the best of the best.
You’re only five minutes away (by foot) from enjoying some of their faves, like a margarita at Mi Cocina, a martini at The Honor Bar, the patio views at Park House, unforgettable bagels and brunch at Sadelle's —and the list goes on!
Where to play
Highland Park Village is also one of Bass and Hutchinson’s favorite playgrounds for style and beauty.
They recommend a facial with Dr. Barbara Sturm and salon services at Cerón, or just browsing boutiques like Dior, Ralph Lauren, Hermès, Carolina Herrera, and more.
“Someone once told me the best way to decide where to live in a city is by googling Chanel and finding a home close to the store,” says Hutchinson. “The French Streets are exactly that: within walking distance of Dallas' one and only Chanel store.”
Where to live
The architecture in the neighborhood is true to its name, and Bass and Hutchinson love the French influence in the charming Tudor-style homes and exquisitely manicured gardens.
"The long-term value of properties in this specific neighborhood of the Park Cities is unparalleled,” they add.
---
Noora Bass and Kathleen Hutchinson work and play in the French Streets. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email nbass@briggsfreeman.comm and khutchinson@briggsfreeman.com, or call 310-435-7708 (Noora Bass) and 214-207-5368 (Kathleen Hutchinson).