As the prestigious 2023 Kips Bay Decorator Show House officially opens its doors in the esteemed Old Preston Hollow neighborhood this weekend, my thoughts invariably return to why this area remains one of Dallas’s most captivating and beloved enclaves. It’s a place that effortlessly blends historical charm with modern luxury, attracting discerning residents and design enthusiasts alike. Its appeal is not merely superficial; it’s rooted in a unique lifestyle that many aspire to.
Recalling Cherished Moments in Dallas’s “Honeypot”
For over a decade, I had the privilege of calling this remarkable neighborhood home, residing near the nexus of Park Lane and Hollow Way. This particular segment of Preston Hollow is affectionately, and accurately, known as the “honeypot” – a term that perfectly encapsulates its magnetic draw and exclusivity. Indeed, when we lived at 5511 Park Lane, my fondness for the poetic resonance of “Hollow Way” was so profound that I genuinely pursued changing our official address to reflect it.
Our home boasted an utterly magnificent garden room, a true sanctuary adorned with radiant, glossy Zellige floor tiles in an exquisite Vert Mousse shade. Its beauty was such that Horchow, the renowned luxury home furnishings retailer, frequently leased it for their elaborate photo shoots, a testament to its photogenic charm and sophisticated ambiance. Even now, a sense of longing often washes over me, wishing we had never departed from that special place. Yet, I must confess, our residence, while undeniably beautiful in its prime, was akin to a crumbling movie star from the 1930s – elegant and iconic in its heyday, but over the years, it had slowly succumbed to a bewildering array of changes and disrepair. Ultimately, our beloved old home was thoughtfully razed, making way for what stands today: a breathtaking 9,800-square-foot estate, a symbol of modern architectural grandeur within this historic landscape.
Understanding the Neighborhood’s Perspective: The Quest for Seclusion
Upon learning of the controversy surrounding the Kips Bay Dallas Show House and the resistance it faced from a segment of the local community, a sympathetic “I get it” resonated deeply within me. This sentiment stems from a profound understanding of what draws residents to the highly coveted “honeypot” section of Preston Hollow in the first place: a fervent desire for expansive, verdant acreage and, above all, an unyielding commitment to privacy.
The very fabric of life in this exclusive enclave is woven with tranquility and personal space. The prospect of a high-profile event like a show house descending upon one’s immediate vicinity, even for a limited duration, understandably triggers apprehension. Residents envision potential disruptions: the unsightly marks of tire skids marring meticulously maintained lawns, sprinkler heads inadvertently damaged by increased vehicle traffic, or well-meaning but oblivious patrons inadvertently trampling through delicate gravel pathways or saturated lawns after one of Dallas’s unpredictable rainstorms, much like the ones we experienced recently. These are not minor inconveniences but fundamental intrusions into the sanctuary that these homeowners have meticulously cultivated. Indeed, such disturbances are unwelcome, regardless of the philanthropic benefits they may ultimately yield, as the intrinsic value of undisturbed home life in such a prized location is paramount.
Embracing the Vision: Why Kips Bay Belongs in Preston Hollow
And yet, an opposing conviction quickly surfaces: “But I don’t get it.” These truly spectacular neighborhoods are precisely why Kips Bay, a venerable institution in the world of interior design, strategically chose Dallas several years ago as a new location for its iconic show house. Patrons, designers, and enthusiasts from across the nation flock to these events, eager for an exclusive glimpse into the pinnacle of luxury living. The tree-lined streets, the sprawling estates, and the overall ambiance of these neighborhoods stun the senses with an unparalleled sense of class, elegance, and beauty. This unique allure, this aspirational lifestyle, is precisely why individuals invest in homes here in the “honeypot.” It’s a testament to Dallas’s growing stature as a design hub and a reflection of the sophisticated tastes of its residents.
Furthermore, the Kips Bay Show House tour is far from a chaotic free-for-all. It is a highly curated and meticulously managed event. Tickets, which contribute significantly to a vital philanthropic cause, range from a respectable $50 to an exclusive $1,000, ensuring that attendance is intentional and appreciative. For interior designers, the opportunity to contribute to a Kips Bay showcase is a career-defining moment, a prestigious entry into an exclusive club of industry luminaries. Such an distinguished event, featuring the cutting edge of design, inherently belongs in Dallas’s most exclusive locales, be it the storied streets of Beverly Drive or the distinguished expanses of Old Preston Hollow. With all due respect to the neighbors, it is undeniably a perfect, symbiotic location for a show house of this caliber.
Moreover, the logistical planning for the event is nothing short of stringent. Parking regulations are enforced with a rigor one might associate with a federal building. The show operates under a special use permit for a finite period of 11 days. To minimize neighborhood impact, Kips Bay patrons are required to park approximately two miles north of the venue and are then seamlessly shuttled to the show house. This meticulous orchestration ensures that residential streets remain uncluttered and the privacy of homeowners is respected, demonstrating a clear commitment to mitigating disruption while still celebrating exceptional design.
Preston Hollow’s Illustrious Residents: A Glimpse into Elite Living
Preston Hollow has long been synonymous with influence, affluence, and privacy, making it a preferred address for some of the most prominent figures in business, sports, and philanthropy. Who are the titans and tastemakers who currently call Preston Hollow home? The list reads like a who’s who of Dallas elite. Mark Cuban, the outspoken entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, is a well-known resident. NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki, after his storied career with the Mavericks, has made a move further west into the prestigious Strait Lane area, having previously bought and then sold the former Wyly estate at 5906 DeLoache. Jose Reyes, another notable figure, resides nearby, adding to the neighborhood’s distinguished roster.
The community is further enriched by individuals such as Jim and Julie Turner, Rob and Monica Allyn, Elaine Pearlman, the political power couple Laura Miller and Steve Wolens, society fixture Kimberly Whitman, and philanthropist Lisa K. Simmons. The legal world is represented by super lawyer Angel Reyes III, while Randall Stephenson and his family contribute to the neighborhood’s corporate gravitas. Commercial real estate maven Shula Netzer and acclaimed attorney Windle Turley also maintain residences here. Prominent community leaders like Nancy Halbreich, legendary Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (whose daughter Jennifer Gates is also well-known), and Richard Strauss are part of this exclusive tapestry. Beyond these publicly recognized names, a significant number of individuals benefiting from substantial trust funds contribute to the private wealth and understated elegance that define Preston Hollow, ensuring its legacy as a beacon of luxury living.
The Illustrious History of 9446 Hathaway: A Dallas Show House Legacy
This year’s distinguished show house, located at 9446 Hathaway, holds a fascinating lineage within the Preston Hollow community. When our family resided in the neighborhood, this residence was under the ownership of Bard and Traci Hummel, who later divorced around 2001. In 2003, the esteemed Dr. John Desaloms, a prominent neurosurgeon, and his wife Melissa acquired the home, ushering in a new chapter for the property. A decade later, in 2015, the ownership transitioned once more, with Robert Rhys Heinsch and Zoe Larose, the current listed owners, making their mark. Zoe Larose, herself a notable entrepreneur, is the proprietor of Mine Boutique, a chic retail destination conveniently located near Southern Methodist University (SMU). Their acquisition in 2015 for approximately $2.5 million was, in the discerning view of many, a remarkably astute investment – a veritable “steal” in the competitive Dallas luxury real estate market.
Today, the property’s value reflects its desirability and the appreciation within this elite neighborhood. According to the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD), the home is assessed at $3.52 million – a figure that, while substantial, some might argue still understates its true market potential given its location and the unparalleled renovations it has undergone. The residence itself, originally built in 1940 and significantly remodeled in 1980, spans an expansive 7,992 square feet. It features five generously proportioned bedrooms and is nestled on a lush, meticulously manicured 1.75-acre lot, offering both grandeur and serene privacy. This historical perspective underscores the enduring value and evolving story of luxury homes in Old Preston Hollow.
Unearthing the Past: Old Preston Hollow’s Rich Heritage
The 9446 Hathaway home, despite its proximity, remarkably backs onto the Dallas North Tollway – a fact utterly imperceptible to the casual observer due to the magnificent and abundant foliage that creates a natural, impenetrable buffer. This verdant screen is a testament to the neighborhood’s commitment to preserving its serene atmosphere. A fascinating historical tidbit reveals that up until the mid-1960s, what is now the bustling Dallas North Tollway was once the tranquil route of the Cotton Belt track. Residents living west of Preston Road during that era would have been familiar with the daily, resonant blasts of Cotton Belt train horns, a distinct auditory marker of a bygone era. A St. Louis Southwestern Railway line ran parallel to Preston Road, heading north out of downtown, and its train sounded its horn at every street crossing, weaving itself into the daily rhythm of the community.
Stories passed down by my older neighbors paint a vivid picture of the Great Depression era, when handymen would frequently hop rides on these trains, occasionally disembarking in Preston Hollow to seek work amidst the affluent estates. Many homes in this historic neighborhood were thoughtfully designed with backhouses, serving not only as accommodations for household help but also as places where these individuals could find respite and a warm meal after a day’s labor. This practice speaks to a time of both necessity and community support, highlighting a unique social fabric. The Cotton Belt train tracks, a lifeline for many and a defining feature of the landscape, were finally dismantled in the mid-1960s, paving the way for the transformation of their right-of-way into the modern Dallas North Tollway, forever altering the soundscape and connectivity of Old Preston Hollow.
A Masterpiece Reimagined: The Hathaway Mansion’s Dazzling Transformation
Every single inch of the magnificent 8,000-square-foot Hathaway mansion has undergone a breathtaking and unique transformation, meticulously orchestrated by a collective of 22 celebrated creatives. These notable designers, each a luminary in their field, have poured their artistic vision into every space, culminating in a showcase of unparalleled innovation and luxury. From the intimate powder room to the expansive master bedroom suite, complete with its indulgent primary closet, and the enchanting pool pavilion designed for ultimate leisure, every area has been decadently decked out. The inspirations drawn for these spaces are as diverse as they are captivating, ranging from the vibrant, intricate patterns of Marrakech and the refined elegance associated with Bunny Mellon, to the timeless sophistication of Parisian chateaus, and even a nostalgic nod to a whimsical teen girl’s bedroom from the spirited 1980s. This eclectic blend of influences creates a rich tapestry of design, offering visitors an immersive journey through various aesthetic worlds.
It’s particularly noteworthy, as gleaned from an enlightening interview with the extraordinary builder John Sebastian, that primary closets are no longer mere storage spaces; they have become de rigueur, transforming into elaborate, room-like sanctuaries. These expansive closets are meticulously designed not just for organization but for the display of cherished collectibles – an array of designer shoes, an enviable collection of handbags, and other personal luxuries. This trend makes perfect sense in the context of high-end living; when a single designer handbag can command upwards of $2,500, and a coveted pair of Valentino shoes, like those I recently admired, are priced at $1,150, these items transcend mere accessories. They are investments, art pieces in their own right, deserving of a curated display that rivals a gallery. In a world where such personal treasures hold significant value, who needs to allocate funds for additional art when one’s wardrobe is a masterpiece in itself?
Leadership, Philanthropy, and Seamless Execution of Kips Bay Dallas
The success and prestige of the 2023 Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas are a testament to the dedicated leadership guiding this monumental event. This year, the show house is skillfully co-chaired by the esteemed Jean Liu and Chad Dorsey, two figures whose vision and influence are pivotal to its execution. They are ably supported by the distinguished vice chairs, Laura Lee Clark and Trish Sheats, who bring their expertise and passion to the forefront. The event is further elevated by its honorary chairs: the iconic Jamie Drake, the renowned Jan Showers, and Veranda Editor-in-Chief Steele Marcoux, whose collective presence underscores the show house’s significance in the design world. A highlight of the pre-show festivities was the beautifully orchestrated Kips Bay President’s Dinner, held on October 5th at the exclusive Brook Hollow Country Club, where Paper City Publisher Holly Moore was deservedly honored for her contributions to the design community. This lavishly attended affair was not only an enormous success but also a masterclass in elegant event planning, setting a sophisticated tone for the entire show house season.
Finally, the 2023 Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas is here, unfettered by the neighborhood disputes that somewhat marred the 2022 event, and thankfully free from the operational constraints imposed by the global pandemic in 2021. Lessons learned from previous years have led to an even more refined and considerate approach. The “NO PARKING on the street” mandate is now enforced with the utmost seriousness, a clear demonstration of Kips Bay’s commitment to minimizing its footprint on the tranquil residential streets of Old Preston Hollow. Patrons are directed to park at the Northaven United Methodist Church, conveniently located at 11211 Preston Road – an arrangement that, humorously, places them quite close to my own residence. From there, attendees embark on a comfortable, taupe-toned bus for a seamless two-mile journey to the show house. This meticulous shuttle system ensures that the right of way directly in front of the showcased home remains clear of vehicles, save for essential security personnel and Dallas Police Department presence, preserving the serene aesthetic of the neighborhood. For comprehensive details and visitor information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official Kips Bay Decorator Show House website. Every effort has been made to ensure that the show house is as unobtrusive as possible, gracefully integrating into this verdant Eden of tranquility.
Ultimately, the Kips Bay Show House stands as the most significant design event of the year not just in Dallas, but arguably across the entire country. More profoundly, it serves as the paramount fundraiser for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, a venerable institution providing invaluable support and opportunities to underserved youth. And so, to my cherished neighbors who may still harbor reservations, I reiterate: I truly understand your concerns for privacy and peace, but simultaneously, I cannot fully concede to them. Preston Hollow, with its unparalleled beauty, historical depth, and status as a hub for luxury and influence, is not merely a suitable location for this event; it is, without a doubt, the perfect neighborhood for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House to thrive and make its impactful statement.