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Carol Gantt Flawlessly Restores Dines and Kraft Tudor Lakewood Mansion

The service entrance of the historic Dines and Kraft Tudor home in Lakewood, Dallas, used as a family entrance.
Although this is the preferred entrance for family use, it’s actually the service entrance of the home.

An Iconic Return: The Beloved Dines and Kraft Tudor at 6861 Lakewood Boulevard Hits the Market

Nestled in the heart of one of Dallas’s most cherished neighborhoods, the Dines and Kraft Tudor at 6861 Lakewood Boulevard stands as a testament to timeless architecture and enduring charm. This magnificent residence is, without a doubt, one of the most beloved and recognizable homes in the Lakewood area, captivating passersby and neighbors alike with its distinctive character. After much anticipation, this architectural gem is finally available for sale once more, presenting a rare opportunity for discerning buyers to own a piece of Dallas history.

Recently listed by the esteemed Annamari Lannon of Allie Beth Allman, this remarkable property is offered at $1.249 million. This price point represents exceptional value for a home of such historic significance, grand scale, and impeccable restoration. Built in 1928, this three-story Tudor spans an impressive 4,160 square feet, offering ample space for both luxurious living and sophisticated entertaining. For generations, neighbors have affectionately referred to this residence as “The Ohio House.” We invite you to scrutinize the initial photograph once more, paying close attention to the left side where a subtle detail peeks through the tree’s foliage. Share your theories in the comments section below – can you unravel the mystery behind its intriguing moniker?

The Legacy of Dines and Kraft: Masters of Lakewood’s Architectural Landscape

The names Albert Dines and Lee Kraft resonate deeply within the history of Lakewood. They were integral figures in a select group of talented builders who were instrumental in shaping the architectural identity of this vibrant Dallas community. Their homes, characterized by robust construction, profound architectural significance, and an abundance of unique character, remain among the most sought-after properties today. Owning a Dines and Kraft Tudor is more than just acquiring a house; it’s embracing a piece of local heritage. These homes demand intelligent, caring, and dedicated owners who not only understand but deeply appreciate their crucial role in the stewardship of such irreplaceable residences.

The stately main entrance of the Dines and Kraft Tudor home, facing Lakewood Boulevard.
The grand main entry to the home is from the Lakewood Boulevard side.

Tudor architecture, a style inspired by medieval English designs, is celebrated for its distinctive half-timbering, steeply pitched gables, decorative masonry, and often, intricate brickwork. These homes exude a storybook charm, offering a sense of history and permanence that newer constructions often lack. The craftsmanship involved in their creation is evident in every detail, from the sturdy foundations to the meticulously carved wood accents. Preserving these homes requires a delicate balance of modernization and respect for original design, a challenge that the current owners embraced with remarkable success.

The elegant living room with rich wood paneling, bathed in natural light, showcasing the timeless interior of the Tudor home.

Original Red Gum wood paneling in the living area, creating a deep, warm ambiance in the historic Lakewood Tudor.
Original Red Gum wood paneling creates an unmatched depth and warmth to the living area.

A Testament to Preservation: The Wages Family and Carol Gantt’s Vision

Fortunately for this magnificent Tudor, its present owners, Brian and Jorie Wages, embody the very spirit of dedication required for such a stewardship. Years ago, upon acquiring the home, their most pivotal decision was to engage the exceptional talents of construction consultant and designer Carol Gantt. Gantt is a widely recognized authority and the “go-to” expert for the intricate renovation of historic homes throughout Dallas, known for her ability to blend period authenticity with contemporary functionality.

“This house is unequivocally one of my favorites,” Gantt enthusiastically shared. “Its inherent beauty is simply undeniable. What I find most captivating about this particular Tudor is its distinct interior, which truly sets it apart from any other I’ve encountered in Lakewood. The bathrooms, remarkably preserved in their pristine original condition, offer a level of luxury that was extraordinary for their era and remain nearly flawless today. The home boasts two exquisite entries – a grand formal entrance on Lakewood Boulevard and another charming one on Lakeshore – complemented by two staircases: a stately formal one at the front and a more casual, everyday one in the rear. And of course, one cannot overlook the neat timbering patterns, the wonderful craftsmanship evident in every corner, and the intricate detailing that permeates the entire house. The original quarter-sawn parquet flooring, the inviting sun porches, and the rich, dark wood trim and paneling further enhance its allure. There is an abundance of original detailing to adore, making it, in my estimation, a truly one-of-a-kind Lakewood treasure.”

A view into a beautifully appointed room, showcasing original architectural details and elegant furnishings.
Detailed view of the exquisite woodwork and a cozy fireplace, highlighting the craftsmanship of the Tudor era.
A sun-drenched sunroom or porch, offering a bright and inviting space for relaxation.
Another perspective of the refined interior, emphasizing the elegant flow between rooms and the period-appropriate decor.
The grand formal staircase, featuring dark wood banisters and intricate detailing, a hallmark of the home's historic charm.
An additional view of one of the home's charming sun porches, perfect for enjoying morning coffee.

Despite its inherent beauty, the home had indeed fallen into a state of disrepair over the years. As Lannon pointed out, “It had suffered over the years. The Wages saved it. They did the necessary updates and secured the architectural integrity as well.” Their commitment wasn’t merely cosmetic; it was a comprehensive effort to revitalize the home’s structure and systems while meticulously preserving its irreplaceable historical features.

Jorie Wages’ background offered a unique perspective on the renovation. Having grown up in Tuxedo Park, New York – one of the nation’s pioneering planned subdivisions known for its strong architectural identity and prevalence of Tudor-style homes with white stucco and dark timbers – she possessed an innate understanding of period design. Gantt elaborated on this influence: “Tuxedo Park has a strong architectural identity. There are lots of Tudor-style homes with white stucco and dark timbers, so part of what we tried to do was to echo that Tuxedo Park style more or less. Our overarching goal was to keep the home as much in period style as we could, ensuring every new element felt as though it belonged from day one.”

Modern Functionality Meets Historic Charm: The Kitchen Reimagined

One area that presented a significant challenge and opportunity for transformation was the kitchen. Having undergone a refurbishment in the 1970s, it starkly contrasted with the home’s original character and was profoundly ill-suited for the demands of a modern family. The 1970s aesthetic, while contemporary for its time, completely departed from the elegant period style of the 1928 Tudor. The task was to create a functional, state-of-the-art kitchen that seamlessly integrated with the home’s historic fabric.

“We were diligent in preserving whatever vestiges of the original kitchen remained,” Gantt explained. “The windows, the graceful arches, the fabulous original floor in the breakfast room, and the original doors and their hardware were all carefully protected and restored. These elements provided the essential framework for our modern interpretation.” This meticulous approach ensured that the heart of the home, while updated, retained its historical soul.

A contemporary kitchen featuring custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and ample counter space, thoughtfully designed within the historic context.
Close-up view of the kitchen island and modern fixtures, demonstrating the blend of new and old.
The charming breakfast nook area, with its original flooring and windows preserved.
Another angle of the kitchen, showcasing integrated appliances and sleek design elements.

The transformation was comprehensive and thoughtful. “We successfully incorporated a giant, state-of-the-art fridge and a spacious pantry, which many of my clients consistently find to be one of the most impactful improvements for a busy family,” Gantt noted. “The original kitchen notoriously lacked an island, so integrating a central island, alongside abundant counter space and intelligent storage solutions, was a high priority. Furthermore, we deliberately designed the back entry area with an eye towards future possibilities. It now serves as an elegant bar area, but it also creates a seamless connection to where a future den or perhaps even a master suite could potentially be developed on that side of the house. This forward-thinking design ensures the home’s adaptability for evolving family needs.”

The newly designed bar area near the back entrance, showcasing thoughtful use of space and sophisticated finishes.
A glimpse of a modern and functional utility space or mudroom, reflecting practical updates.
The home's exterior at twilight, with warm lights invitingly glowing from within.
A charming architectural detail on the home's exterior, perhaps a window box or decorative element.

A Family Sanctuary Perfect for Entertaining

Beyond its historical grandeur and meticulous renovation, this Tudor is designed with modern family living at its core. It features three spacious bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and an additional powder bath, providing comfort and convenience for all. The versatility of this home is evident on the third floor, currently purposed as an engaging game room, but easily convertible into a private guest suite or a quiet home office, adapting to the owner’s lifestyle needs. Its thoughtful layout also makes it uniquely suited for entertaining, offering an excellent flow between living spaces. The dining room, in particular, transcends the typical holiday-only designation; its inviting ambiance encourages frequent gatherings, making every meal a special occasion. This home truly balances the needs of daily family life with the joys of hosting friends and loved ones.

The elegant and spacious dining room, ready for both intimate family meals and grand entertaining.

Original vibrant bathroom tiles, perfectly preserved, showcasing the distinct character of the Tudor home's period elegance.
Original bathroom tiles in vivid colors define Tudor homes and are an essential part of their character. The bathrooms in this home are absolutely flawless.

A beautifully preserved vintage bathroom sink and fixtures, highlighting the home's commitment to historical authenticity.
Another view of an immaculately maintained period bathroom, reflecting a bygone era's luxury.
A pristine tiled shower area, exemplifying the exceptional condition of the original bathrooms.
A classic pedestal sink in one of the well-preserved bathrooms, maintaining its historical integrity.
The master bedroom, offering a serene and spacious retreat with ample natural light.
A view of another charming bedroom, tastefully decorated and maintaining the home's historic character.

Expanding Horizons: The Backyard and Community Spirit

Historically, this stunning residence had a more modest backyard, a common characteristic of homes from its era. However, the Wages undertook an innovative structural modification, removing a section of the home to substantially expand the yard space, creating a more generous outdoor area for recreation and relaxation. This commitment to enhancing outdoor living further elevates the property’s appeal. Adding to this remarkable proposition, a thoughtful next-door neighbor has expressed a willingness to sell an adjacent parcel of land to the eventual buyer, should they desire an even larger, sprawling yard. This unique offer presents an incredible advantage for those whose dream home vision includes expansive outdoor space. Indeed, where else would neighbors actively offer to enhance your property? This spirit of cooperation and community defines living in Lakewood, a neighborhood celebrated for its engaged and invested residents who truly care about their surroundings.

This is far more than just a house; it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire a home that is not only an iconic fixture in the Lakewood landscape but has also been meticulously restored to be architecturally sound and perfectly adapted to contemporary family needs, all while maintaining its breathtaking aesthetic appeal. The Dines and Kraft Tudor is a rare confluence of history, luxury, and thoughtful modernization, ready to welcome its next chapter and its next dedicated stewards.

Karen Eubank is the owner of Eubank Staging and Design. With over 25 years of experience, she is an award-winning professional home stager. She has also been a professional writer for two decades. Karen is the proud mother of a son currently studying music at The University of Miami. An ardent animal lover, she is always delighted when a furry friend decides to jump onto her lap. Discover more about Karen’s work at www.eubankstaging.com.