The Dallas luxury real estate scene is buzzing with excitement as acclaimed billionaire businessman and developer Craig Hall, alongside his esteemed wife, Kathryn, prepare to make a significant move. Previously offering a glimpse into their breathtaking Plaza II penthouse along the prestigious Turtle Creek corridor, we now have the definitive answer to where this visionary couple is heading: the iconic Hall Arts Residences. This move not only underscores their commitment to the Dallas Arts District but also serves as a powerful endorsement of what is rapidly becoming the city’s most distinguished residential address.
Hall Arts Residences represents the pinnacle of sophistication, setting an unparalleled standard for luxury condo living in Dallas. It stands as the city’s newest, sleekest, and most art-centric condominium project, exuding an air of exclusivity with only 48 meticulously crafted units. In an era where each new luxury high-rise strives to outdo its predecessors in amenities, design, and lavishness, Hall Arts Residences doesn’t just join the ranks—it undeniably rises to the very top, redefining urban elegance and well-being.
Unrivaled Location: The Heart of Dallas Arts District
The primary allure of Hall Arts Residences (HAR) is its truly exceptional location. Strategically perched in the vibrant heart of the Dallas Arts District, residents find themselves within the largest contiguous arts district in the entire nation. This unparalleled positioning offers more than just stunning views; it places a world of culture, entertainment, and fine dining quite literally at your doorstep. Imagine being mere steps away from world-class performance venues such as the Winspear Opera House, the Wyly Theatre, and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, as well as renowned museums and an array of gourmet restaurants. While the building’s superior sound insulation ensures a tranquil interior, you could almost “hop over” to catch a symphony, an opera, or a captivating theatrical performance, immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural tapestry with effortless ease. Set to open in 2020, HAR promises to deliver this dream lifestyle in less than a year.
A Paradigm Shift in Residential Design: The Healthier Building
Beyond its prime location and luxurious aesthetics, Hall Arts Residences introduces a revolutionary 21st-century component, distinguishing itself as a pioneer in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metropolitan area: an unwavering commitment to **Wellness**. This focus on occupant health and well-being is not merely an amenity; it’s a foundational principle embedded in the very fabric of the building’s design and operation.
The concept of indoor air quality has long been a quiet concern for discerning homebuyers. I recall a poignant lunch with the late, legendary Realtor Carolyn Shamis, who, in her era, was the undisputed queen of Turtle Creek condo sales. During her own battle with illness, she revealed how she meticulously tested the air in units she was selling, often discovering alarming deficiencies. She passionately conveyed her belief that Dallas’s downtown air quality, particularly indoors, left much to be desired. Her story stuck with me, fueling a hope that one day, a developer would rise to the challenge, creating a living environment truly free from allergens, pollutants, noxious fumes, and pollen. Craig Hall, Chairman of HALL Group and the visionary behind Hall Arts Residences, has not only answered that call but has surpassed all expectations with these spectacular luxury condominiums.
“We care about health tremendously,” Hall shared during our conversation. “Hall Arts Residences is proudly the first WELL-certified multifamily building in the state of Texas. This certification signifies a profound dedication to human health and well-being. Residents benefit from fresh, purified air that is pumped into the building not just periodically, but daily, ensuring an environment free from common indoor air contaminants.”
Achieving the rigorous WELL Building Standard certification meant implementing a comprehensive suite of advanced building technologies and thoughtful design principles. Hall Arts Residences boasts multilevel air filtration systems that capture particles, pathogens, and allergens, providing a continuous supply of pristine air. To mitigate noise transfer, an often-overlooked aspect of urban living, the building features meticulously engineered walls and a special sound-reducing membrane installed in the floors. This means no intrusive sounds from neighbors, fostering truly restful and peaceful nights. On-site fitness facilities, including dedicated massage rooms, are integrated with the same advanced filtered air system, enhancing every aspect of physical and mental rejuvenation. Interior design palettes, masterfully created by Emily Summers, are optimized for light and serenity, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Furthermore, the entire environment is infused with exquisite beauty and inspiring art, stimulating the mind and elevating the spirit.
“A focus on health and wellness has become an increasingly pivotal feature of today’s luxury residential developments,” Hall explained. However, at Hall Arts Residences, he has pushed this concept significantly further, asserting that it will offer the most innovative and health-driven living environment available anywhere in the market. This forward-thinking approach is complemented by remarkable architectural intelligence and design flexibility.
Beyond wellness, HAR is also engineered to be one of the smartest buildings, and not just in terms of integrated smart home technology. The shell homes on floors 20 through 28, including the magnificent two-story penthouse units, feature a unique design element: the finished floors are raised by two feet over the actual structural surface. This ingenious design offers residents unparalleled renovation flexibility. “In most high-rises, if you want to make significant changes to your plumbing or electrical, you often have to seek permission and access to the ceiling of the neighbor below,” Hall elaborated. “By building HAR from scratch, we had vastly more flexibility and fewer compromises, enabling us to elevate the living experience to this next level, empowering owners with unprecedented customization options for their dream homes.”
This commitment to innovation and pushing boundaries is intrinsic to Craig Hall’s philosophy, whether in real estate or his acclaimed wine ventures. A Michigan transplant, Hall’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1968 with a modest $4,000 down payment on a small student rooming house in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This initial capital was painstakingly saved through diverse endeavors, from mowing lawns and various odd jobs to even selling Cutco Knives. “I did a lot of things that were unimaginable just to make a living and make ends meet,” he candidly recalled, painting a picture of relentless determination. “I managed property for someone who literally once a month would pull a gun on me and ask if I was stealing. I managed anything and everything that would provide cash flow.”
His innate business acumen proved prescient in 1978 when U.S. healthcare began its transformative evolution. Hall invested in the country’s second for-profit HMO, an investment that dramatically transformed $111,000 into an astounding $35 million. This success propelled his relocation to Dallas, where he established a formidable presence with 5,000 employees and at least $3 billion in real estate and other diversified interests. His journey, however, was not without its trials. For many in Dallas real estate, the late 1980s evoke a sense of trepidation, marked by seismic real estate tax law changes, the energy crisis, the Savings & Loan scandals, and a devastating stock market crash, leaving no developer unscathed. Yet, it was the collapse of the city’s home airline that truly tested Hall’s resilience: he sustained a staggering $500 million loss on American Airlines stock before the carrier filed for bankruptcy in 2011.
Despite these colossal challenges, Craig Hall is rightfully considered a Texas real estate miracle, consistently emerging from each setback with flying colors. His remarkable ability to restructure $500 million in loans, strategically acquire properties in a soft downtown Dallas market only to sell them high, and continually scoop up “depressed” buildings demonstrated an uncanny foresight. He looked northward, long before anyone could fathom the Dallas Cowboys relocating their headquarters to 91 acres in Frisco, or Toyota establishing its world headquarters in Plano. And despite owning a private plane, a testament to his success, Craig Hall maintains a sense of loyalty, having continued to fly on American Airlines.
His long-term vision for the Dallas Arts District began in 1995 when he acquired the foundational land. His intent was clear: to house his own company, and to eventually develop the wellness-centered residences and a luxury hotel that would form the Hall Arts complex. This visionary foresight is now coming to fruition, with Hall Arts Residences poised to become Craig and Kathryn Hall’s new “forever home” as soon as it reaches completion.
“By far, this will be the most luxurious high-rise in Dallas, boasting a distinctly urban feel,” Hall stated confidently. “The hidden extra costs associated with owning and maintaining a traditional home are eliminated here; this will be totally maintenance-free living, offering residents an unparalleled peace of mind and more time to enjoy their lives and the vibrant city.”
The HAR tower, soaring 28 stories high, occupies a truly prime location, offering more than just walking distance to the Winspear Opera House, the Wyly Theatre, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, district museums, and at least eight exceptional restaurants. Residents can almost *hop* over to these cultural and culinary landmarks, making spontaneous excursions an everyday luxury. Units at Hall Arts Residences, starting at $2 million, are designed to embody ultimate luxury and convenience. Owners will have exclusive access to an infinity-edged pool that seemingly floats over the opera house, offering breathtaking views, and a sophisticated wine room available for private reservations, complete with a state-of-the-art catering kitchen. Staying true to the building’s dedication to wellness, there will be ample provisions for wine storage, ensuring that connoisseurs can securely house their prized collections.
“You can host 30 people for dinner here and gaze out over the opera house, creating truly unforgettable moments,” Hall envisioned. “Individual wine lockers will be elegantly housed within a magnificent glassed-in wine cellar, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.”
As for the Halls’ personal new residence, it will be a sprawling two-story unit, at least doubling the square footage of their current Plaza II home. This magnificent penthouse will feature a host of luxurious amenities, including their very own private, glassed-in wine cellar, a personal touch reflecting their passion. “I particularly appreciate the idea of being right in the heart of the Arts District,” Hall expressed, highlighting the profound convenience. “Plus, it’s literally 50 steps to my office in the adjacent building. Friends have playfully suggested I could just string a rope between the two buildings and swing right over.”
However, Hall’s preference lies in a more refined experience: taking in the exquisite accouterments of his creation’s architectural artistry, alongside the carefully curated art collection that will be prominently displayed throughout the residences. This includes a blend of local and international art pieces, much like the fabulous collection from their present home, which will be moved and elevated to the next level at both the residences and the new Hall Arts Hotel next door. The luxury hotel, scheduled for completion in Fall 2019, has already made headlines by securing Eric Dreyer, Oprah Winfrey’s former private chef and a proud North Texas native, to lead Ellie’s, its signature restaurant named in honor of Craig Hall’s mother. The Hall Arts Hotel promises to open its doors to an exceptional culinary and hospitality experience this fall.
“I genuinely hope our current condo sells quickly, as we plan to live in the hotel until our penthouse at HAR is fully prepared,” Hall shared, emphasizing his eagerness to experience his new development firsthand. “This is poised to be an absolutely incredible hotel, offering unbelievable services and a meticulously curated special art collection that will captivate and inspire.”
Craig Hall enthusiastically compares the entire Hall Arts complex to a new Mansion, hinting at an unprecedented level of luxury and service. Or, we daresay, something even better, a true masterpiece of urban living, wellness, and culture.
To explore more about the exquisite residences and unparalleled lifestyle offered at Hall Arts Residences, click here.