Bud Oglesby Bluffview Estate: A Contemporary Rebirth

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Photography by Jason Anderson, JA2 Photography.

5411 Surrey Circle: A Bluffview Contemporary Estate Reimagined into a Dallas Luxury Icon

Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary transformation of 5411 Surrey Circle, a magnificent Bluffview contemporary estate that has transcended its original grandeur to become a true Dallas luxury icon. Originally conceived by the renowned architect Bud Oglesby, this property has undergone an evolution so profound, it redefines the very essence of luxury living in Dallas, Texas. What once stood as an inspirational residence has been meticulously reimagined and expanded into an unparalleled compound, now commanding a $24.5 million price tag — a testament to its exceptional design, extensive amenities, and coveted acreage.

From the moment one approaches, the estate at 5411 Surrey Circle exudes an aura of sophisticated exclusivity. While glimpses of its original charm remain in the majestic drive-up, the principal bedroom, and the kitchen, these are merely echoes of a past utterly transformed. This comprehensive renovation and expansion have resulted in a property that is virtually unrecognizable, reborn with stunning additions and an elevated sense of purpose. It represents the pinnacle of modern luxury real estate, offering discerning buyers a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural mastery and private paradise within the heart of Dallas.

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A Legacy of Visionary Design: From Oglesby’s Original to Saada’s Masterpiece

The history of this remarkable Bluffview contemporary estate dates back to 1972, when it was initially designed by the esteemed modernist architect Bud Oglesby for the pioneering plastic surgeon Mark Lemmon. Its initial 7,998 square feet laid a strong foundation for what was to come. In 2005, the estate found new owners in Jean-Claude Saada and his wife, Beth, who embarked on a visionary journey to renovate and expand the property. Over the next three years, they assembled an incredibly talented dream team, transforming the residence into a marvel of modern design and unparalleled luxury.

This transformative project was spearheaded by a triumvirate of design excellence: architect Tom Reisenbichler, interior designer Carol Cumbie, and landscape architect Coy Talley. Their collective genius infused the property with a new life, blending Oglesby’s modernist spirit with contemporary innovation and a keen eye for health-conscious living. The Saadas’ commitment to creating a home that not only impressed visually but also enhanced well-being set a new benchmark for luxury residential design.

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The Minds Behind the Masterpiece: A Dream Team of Design Experts

The unparalleled success of the 5411 Surrey Circle transformation can be largely attributed to the extraordinary expertise of its design team. Jean-Claude Saada himself brought a unique perspective to the project. As the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Cambridge Holdings, a commercial real estate company celebrated for developing, owning, and managing award-winning health-enhancing medical facilities, Saada understands the profound impact of thoughtfully designed spaces on well-being. This philosophy was meticulously applied to his personal residence, demonstrating how intelligent architecture and design can foster more effective living and recovery. In an era where health-conscious residential design is increasingly vital, this estate stands as a pioneering example.

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Tom Reisenbichler: A Visionary Architect at the Forefront of Innovation

Architect Tom Reisenbichler, the principal managing director of the acclaimed architectural firm Perkins + Will, is widely recognized as an innovator far ahead of his time. His work on 5411 Surrey Circle exemplifies his cutting-edge approach. Years prior, when designing his own family residence on Orchid Lane, Reisenbichler incorporated elements to meet the highest LEED requirements, even before such stringent standards were commonly applied to residential structures. His dedication to sustainable and forward-thinking design is deeply embedded in the very fabric of this Bluffview estate, ensuring both beauty and environmental consciousness.

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Coy Talley: Crafting Breathtaking Landscapes

The outdoor spaces of the 5411 Surrey Circle estate are as meticulously designed as its interiors, thanks to the genius of landscape architect Coy Talley. His extensive portfolio includes iconic projects such as the landscape architecture for the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, The Lamplighter School, The Meadows Museum at SMU, and Keller Town Square, alongside countless other civic, corporate, and high-end residential endeavors. Talley’s work transforms the estate’s expansive grounds into a stunning, functional oasis, seamlessly integrating with the architectural elegance of the main residence and the Carriage House.

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Carol Cumbie: Harmonizing Interiors with Purpose

Rounding out this formidable team is Carol Cumbie, the Vice President of Development at Cambridge Holdings. Her unique position allowed for an unparalleled level of synergy, as she oversaw all design phases for the company, bringing years of trusted experience to the Saadas’ personal project. Cumbie’s background, which also includes time at Perkins + Will, provided an intimate understanding of high-level architectural and interior design. Her expertise ensured that the interior aesthetics of the Bluffview contemporary estate not only resonated with the architectural vision but also enhanced the overall sense of health and well-being, creating spaces that are both beautiful and purposeful. This synergy of talent truly represents the cream of the crop in professional design.

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Expanding the Vision: From Acreage to the Grand Carriage House

The initial phase of expansion at 5411 Surrey Circle included a luxurious guest suite and an impressive five-car garage, enhancing the estate’s capacity for hospitality and vehicle storage. However, the true scale of the Saadas’ vision unfolded in 2010 when two adjacent half-acre parcels became available. Seizing this unparalleled opportunity, they expanded their property to a sprawling 3.25 acres, setting the stage for yet another ambitious project.

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This expansion culminated in the construction of the magnificent Carriage House, a two-story, 7,179-square-foot second home with its own separate address at 9016 Broken Arrow Lane. The Carriage House serves as a grand entertainment venue and a dedicated sanctuary for Jean-Claude Saada’s profound passion: high-performance racing. As a dedicated Ferrari Challenge Driver, Saada ensured the Carriage House featured a museum-quality show garage on its upper level. This extraordinary space boasts multiple glass doors that open directly onto the meticulously landscaped modernist grounds, allowing for an effortless display of his exquisite car collection. In total, the entire estate now offers an astonishing capacity for up to 14 vehicles, a dream come true for any automotive enthusiast.

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Beyond the impressive garage, the Carriage House features a sophisticated living, dining, and kitchen area, complemented by elegant powder baths and a convenient elevator providing access to the lower level. This subterranean space houses an additional two-car garage, a cutting-edge driving simulator room for realistic race training, and a professional catering kitchen, making it an ideal venue for hosting grand events and intimate gatherings alike. This secondary residence elevates the estate’s functionality and entertainment capabilities to an unprecedented level.

Unrivaled Amenities: A World of Luxury Within Your Private Compound

The original 7,998-square-foot home has grown to an expansive 15,918 square feet, boasting five exquisite ensuite bedrooms that offer privacy and luxury for all residents and guests. The attached two-story guest quarters provide a complete apartment on the first floor, featuring its own living area, fully equipped kitchen, and two comfortable bedrooms. Upstairs, two additional flexible areas can be effortlessly adapted to suit any need – whether as dedicated home offices, a state-of-the-art exercise room, or any other bespoke space your heart desires. The main estate is further enhanced by an extensive wine room, a dedicated media room for cinematic experiences, a refined billiards room, and a serene room perfect for a grand piano, ensuring every leisure pursuit is catered for.

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“Having three acres in the heart of Dallas is like living in a private park,” remarks Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s listing agent Joan Eleazer. “One of the distinct advantages of this property is that the owners did not replat. It consists of two separate parcels, meaning the Carriage House could function as a completely separate home, offering incredible versatility and investment potential.” This unique characteristic adds another layer of value to an already exceptional Dallas luxury estate.

Indeed, in today’s market, the demand for a lush, private, and secure compound like this Bluffview contemporary estate is paramount. Everyone dreams of owning substantial acreage, especially within a metropolitan area, and properties of this caliber and scale are exceptionally rare finds. This multi-acre Dallas estate offers a sanctuary from the urban bustle, providing unparalleled privacy and an abundance of space.

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The Carriage House at night.
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Beyond Expectations: An Outdoor Paradise and Lifestyle of Distinction

The outdoor offerings of 5411 Surrey Circle are nothing short of breathtaking, completing a luxurious lifestyle that leaves no desire unfulfilled. Imagine basking beside a spectacular infinity pool, serving aces on private tennis courts, or even experiencing the thrill of a zip line that descends gracefully to the creek below. This estate provides an array of amenities that foster both relaxation and exhilaration, ensuring every moment spent outdoors is as enjoyable as it is private.

“This is life on another level,” aptly states Joan Eleazer, encapsulating the essence of what this extraordinary property offers. It is not merely a home; it is a meticulously curated environment designed to elevate daily living into an art form. Every detail, from the grand architectural lines to the smallest landscaping flourish, has been considered to create a seamless blend of elegance, comfort, and entertainment.

Joan Eleazer has listed the magnificent 5411 Surrey Circle for $24.5 million, a price that reflects its unparalleled status as one of Dallas’s most significant luxury properties. Given its rare combination of architectural pedigree, extensive renovations, vast acreage, and world-class amenities, it’s clear that this exceptional estate represents a unique opportunity for the most discerning buyer. Offers are undoubtedly pouring in for this masterpiece, securing its place as a coveted gem in the Dallas luxury real estate market.