Experience the Unexpected: A Modern Treehouse Shines on the Lakewood Home Festival Tour
When you envision the annual Lakewood Home Festival tour, what architectural styles typically come to mind? Perhaps the stately Tudors, the charming Austin stone cottages, or classic Colonials that grace the historic streets of Lakewood. These iconic homes certainly define the neighborhood’s rich heritage. However, prepare to have your expectations wonderfully subverted, because this year’s tour features an architectural marvel that transcends traditional categories: a breathtaking modern treehouse. It’s a residence so innovative and captivating, it’s bound to redefine your perception of what a home can be.
Get ready to be amazed. This isn’t just a house; it’s an elevated living experience, a sanctuary nestled amongst the trees, boasting contemporary design that will undoubtedly captivate every visitor.
From Midcentury Charm to Modern Mastery: The Tompkins’ Lakewood Journey
The story of this extraordinary home began in 2011, when Clair and David Tompkins were contentedly settled in their “funky Midcentury Modern” residence in Little Forest Hills. Life, however, has a way of introducing new chapters, and for the Tompkins, that chapter was the imminent arrival of their first child. The joyous news brought with it the practical need for more space and a desire for a new environment better suited for a growing family.
“We knew we wanted a new build in Lakewood,” Clair shared, elaborating on their decision. “My mom lives there, and the thought of being close to her with the new baby coming was incredibly appealing. While I was eager for a new home, I was a little apprehensive about taking on a project completely from scratch at that particular time.” Serendipitously, they discovered a property already in the framing stage, offering the perfect blend of foundational progress and personalizable potential. This stage allowed them to infuse their vision into the nascent structure, making it a truly bespoke creation from the outset.
Kienast Homes and the Evolution of a Vision
The connection to their builder, Randy Kienast of Kienast Homes, proved to be a stroke of kismet. “I didn’t know the builder personally at the time of purchase,” Clair recounted, “but ironically, my husband David had been friends with him after college.” This fortunate coincidence paved the way for a collaborative and deeply personal building experience. Kienast Homes, renowned for their commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design, was the ideal partner to bring the Tompkins’ vision to life.
Randy Kienast not only masterfully constructed the initial phase of what would become their modern treehouse but also executed a significant expansion. When Clair and David welcomed their second child, the need for even more living area became apparent. Kienast Homes seamlessly added an impressive 2,500 square feet to the residence, meticulously integrating the new structure with the existing design to maintain a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic. This expansion wasn’t merely about adding space; it was about enhancing the home’s functionality and reinforcing its unique character, ensuring that every new corner contributed to the overarching “treehouse” appeal.
Clair Tompkins’ Design Philosophy: Blending Modernity with Warmth
With the home’s footprint established, the next crucial phase involved the design choices that would define its character. This was second nature to Clair, who, with Julie Lloyd, previously ran an interior design company called Thompkins Lloyd Interiors. Her professional expertise allowed her to approach the project with a discerning eye, balancing modern aesthetics with a desire for warmth and livability.
Clair articulated her design philosophy, stating, “I love a white wall, but a modern house can quickly become sterile and cold if white walls dominate every space without any elements to break up the monochrome.” To counteract this, Clair strategically introduced depth and character. During the home’s significant addition, she made a bold and impactful decision: incorporating black paint. “I was going for a warm, dramatic effect,” she explained. This choice was masterfully executed, adding a sophisticated contrast and anchoring various spaces, successfully achieving a compelling visual drama that prevents the modern design from feeling stark or uninviting. The outcome is a testament to her vision, where stark modernity is softened by carefully considered hues and textures.
Distinctive Details and Curated Comforts
To further cultivate that desired warm and inviting atmosphere within their contemporary “treehouse,” Clair meticulously selected natural materials and unique accents. Book-matched walnut cabinets were a key design element, installed across the kitchen, dining room, and master bath. The technique of book-matching, where two adjacent slices of veneer are mirrored to create a symmetrical pattern, highlights the exquisite grain of the walnut, adding a layer of sophisticated craftsmanship and organic warmth that beautifully complements the clean lines of the modern architecture.
Animal prints also play an integral role in the home’s design narrative, strategically appearing on chairs, rugs, and various decorative elements. These prints introduce texture, a touch of playful exoticism, and visual interest without overwhelming the serene palette. And then, there’s the celebrated white peacock gracing the dining room—a story in itself.
Years ago, Clair discovered an image of a white peacock in Elle Décor and instantly knew she had to find one. Her determination paid off during a memorable trip to Round Top, arguably the most acclaimed antique show in the country, alongside her friend and former business partner, Julie. There, amidst countless treasures, they struck gold. “There was a vendor with two peacocks,” Clair recalled excitedly. “I bought the pristine white one, and Julie purchased the more colorful one.” The two majestic birds made their unique journey back to Dallas, carefully positioned with their heads between Clair and Julie. Today, Clair’s white peacock holds court with quiet grandeur, dramatically set against a striking graphic lacquer screen in the dining room, a true testament to her eye for unique art and curated elegance.
The kitchen itself is a masterpiece, anchored by an astonishing Calcutta marble island. Measuring an astounding 16 feet long and six feet wide, it’s not merely a countertop but a central gathering point, a culinary workspace, and a magnificent statement piece that embodies both luxury and functionality.
An Entertainer’s Dream: Open Spaces and the “Treehouse Effect”
One of Clair’s most cherished aspects of the home is its inherent openness and its remarkable capacity for entertaining. The seamless flow between the bar, living room, and kitchen creates an expansive, interconnected space, all of which offer captivating views of the sparkling pool outside. “It’s truly a great party house,” she affirms, highlighting how easily guests can mingle and move between different zones, whether indoors or transitioning to the outdoor oasis.
David, on the other hand, finds his sanctuary in a different part of the home. “I think David’s favorite part is the family room above our garage,” Clair revealed. “It was a key component of the addition, and it really gives you that distinct modern treehouse effect.” This elevated family room, strategically designed to provide privacy and stunning views, offers a unique vantage point, creating a secluded retreat that feels genuinely nestled among the surrounding foliage. It’s a perfect space for relaxation, family gatherings, or simply enjoying the quietude of an elevated perspective, truly embodying the spirit of a sophisticated treehouse.
A Must-See on the Lakewood Home Festival Tour
This modern treehouse at 7102 Pasadena is more than just a home; it’s a testament to innovative design, thoughtful expansion, and a discerning eye for style. It masterfully combines sleek, contemporary aesthetics with a profound sense of warmth, making it both a showpiece and a comfortable family dwelling. While this article offers only a tantalizing sneak peek into its many wonders, trust us when we say that this residence is an absolute highlight of the upcoming Lakewood Home Festival’s annual tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this truly unique and inspiring property firsthand – it promises to be an unforgettable stop on your tour.
IF YOU GO: Discover the Lakewood Home Festival
The annual Lakewood Home Festival is a cherished community event that not only showcases some of the neighborhood’s most stunning residences but also raises vital funds for local schools. This year’s home tour offers multiple opportunities to explore these architectural treasures, including the remarkable modern treehouse:
- Daytime Tour: Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Candlelight Evening Tour: For a more intimate experience, a special candlelight evening tour is available on Saturday, November 9, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tickets are conveniently available through several channels:
- Online: Visit the official website at www.lakewoodhomefestival.com.
- In-Person: Purchase tickets at local establishments including Comerica Bank®, Talulah & HESS, and Snowbaby.
- At the Homes: Tickets can also be purchased directly at each of the featured homes during tour hours.
Please note that the school, which often hosts additional festival activities, will only be open to the public on Saturday, November 9.
Karen Eubank is the owner of Eubank Staging and Design. She has been an award-winning professional home stager and writer for over 25 years. Karen teaches the popular Staging to Sell class and is the creator of the online course, The Beginners Guide to Buying Wholesale. Her love of all dogs, international travel, good chocolate, great champagne, and historic homes knows no bounds. Her father was a spy, so she keeps secrets very well!