Discovering a residence that genuinely captivates is a rare privilege, and the exquisite Highland Park Texas Modern at 3701 Lexington Avenue instantly commanded my full attention. As someone deeply immersed in the world of luxury homes, I confess it takes extraordinary design and execution to truly impress me. Yet, this remarkable property did precisely that. My immediate reaction was to enthusiastically alert my colleagues at Daltxrealestate.com, urging them to witness this architectural marvel. Once I had regained my composure, my next step was to connect with the immensely talented David Stocker, the visionary principal and founder of SHM Architects, eager to uncover the intricate details behind this masterpiece. His insights were truly illuminating.
“Every house should narrate a compelling story,” Stocker eloquently stated. “It must possess the power to draw you in, guiding you on an unforgettable journey. This narrative begins even before you step inside, right from the street. It’s a subtle tease, igniting a desire to peer over the elegant walls. As you pass through the meticulously crafted gates, the home softly beckons, whispering, ‘There’s something truly special about me; come, explore.'” This philosophy is profoundly evident throughout 3701 Lexington Avenue, a bespoke residence that masterfully blends historical reverence with contemporary innovation. The goal was to create a timeless classic that would not only fulfill the needs of a modern young family but also offer boundless opportunities for joyous living and sophisticated entertaining.
Speaking with David Stocker, it’s clear he approached the design of this expansive 8,156-square-foot Highland Park estate with immense passion and enjoyment. But how does one fuse playful creativity with the practical requirements of a bustling family life, all while forging a design that defies fleeting trends? The answer lies in assembling an unparalleled team and making discerning material choices. Crucially, Stocker collaborated with Stephen Hild, a builder renowned for his exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to perfection. Stocker praises Hild, remarking, “He is meticulously precise, and his capability to execute the most intricate details is truly unsurpassed.” This partnership ensured that every design nuance, every custom finish, and every structural element was brought to life with flawless precision.
The selection of materials was another cornerstone of the home’s enduring appeal. Stocker and his team deliberately chose time-honored, natural elements such as majestic Lueders limestone, warm Douglas Fir timber, and luxurious Calacatta marble. However, the true brilliance lies in their innovative application, which gives these traditional materials a refreshing, contemporary interpretation. “Our strength lies in skillfully employing traditional forms in a decidedly more contemporary manner,” Stocker explained. This approach allows the home to feel both deeply rooted in architectural history and vibrantly current, creating an aesthetic that is rich in texture, light, and understated elegance. This commitment to thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship elevates 3701 Lexington Avenue far beyond a mere dwelling; it is a meticulously curated living experience, a sanctuary where every corner tells a piece of its grand story.
Nowhere is SHM Architects’ philosophy of blending tradition with modernity more strikingly evident than the moment one steps through the front door of this Highland Park Texas Modern residence and encounters the breathtaking work-of-art staircase. This isn’t merely a means of vertical transportation; it’s a sculptural masterpiece, a testament to ingenious engineering and artistic vision. “That magnificent structure is crafted from solid Lueders limestone,” Stocker proudly detailed. “It represents quite an engineering feat. Each solid block of stone is meticulously set one upon another, a method rooted in historical construction techniques. There’s an inherent structural integrity to how it self-supports.” While honoring these ancient building principles, a modern touch was introduced: “Of course, we incorporated some steel, simply because contemporary structural engineers tend to favor additional reinforcement beyond historical precedents.” The result is a staircase that feels both deeply traditional in its material and construction, yet strikingly modern in its clean lines and unexpected presentation within the grand entry, captivating all who behold it.
Ascending this magnificent staircase, a journey of architectural discovery unfolds. Clerestory windows strategically placed bathe the ascent in natural light, guiding the eye upwards to a soaring 16-foot, dome-vaulted ceiling crafted from exquisite Douglas fir planks. The warmth of the wood contrasts beautifully with the cool elegance of the stone, creating a harmonious balance. The current owners further elevated this space with the installation of a truly breathtaking Italian Murano glass and antique silver Nenufar Serip chandelier. Designed specifically to complement the unique slope and grandeur of the ceiling, this fixture casts a soft, ethereal glow, transforming the stairwell into an artistic focal point. Just a few steps beyond the landing, a thoughtful entry seat awaits, backed by rugged Texas limestone walls and accented by a series of delicately leaded cast glass windows. This serene nook, bathed in diffused light, offers a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, perhaps even a luxurious afternoon nap, blending comfort with refined aesthetics.
Moving through the home, the gallery hallway continues the architectural narrative with its impressive Catalan-vaulted ceiling. This intricate structure, meticulously created with wood mould brick and Douglas fir timbers, is another inspired homage to historic building techniques, infused with that signature modern spin. The rich texture and architectural depth of this ceiling provide a sense of grandeur and continuity, teasing the visitor with hints of the home’s deeper layers. A larger, equally stunning version of this distinctive vaulted ceiling awaits discovery in the home’s subterranean wine cellar, creating a cohesive design language that unifies various spaces within the sprawling estate. The design seamlessly flows from one exquisite detail to the next.
Entering the great room of this Highland Park Texas Modern residence is unequivocally one of those proverbial jaw-dropping experiences. For connoisseurs of grand architecture, a well-executed vaulted ceiling is often the pinnacle of interior design, and this one, soaring to an impressive height of 21 feet and masterfully constructed from warm Douglas fir, is nothing short of a masterpiece. The sheer scale and craftsmanship create an immediate sense of awe and expansive luxury. Light, the most vital element in any sophisticated home, floods this magnificent room, pouring in through an entire wall of floor-to-ceiling steel windows. These architectural elements not only connect the interior seamlessly with the outdoors but also provide panoramic views of the meticulously landscaped grounds. Complementary clerestory windows further enhance the natural illumination, ensuring a bright and airy ambiance throughout the day. Two sets of elegant French doors, seamlessly integrated into the bank of windows, open gracefully to a private courtyard, offering a tranquil vista overlooking the sparkling pool. This thoughtful design ensures that the great room is not just a place for relaxation but also an idyllic setting for seamless indoor-outdoor living and entertaining.
David Stocker emphasized that this Highland Park Texas Modern home was meticulously designed with entertaining at its core, creating a fluid and inviting atmosphere for social gatherings. “The great room and the dining room are conceived to flow effortlessly into one another, fostering an open yet intimate setting,” he noted. “The dining space, in particular, possesses an inherent glamour, a sophisticated allure. Upon seeing it, one immediately envisions the sheer delight and memorable experiences that a dinner party here would offer.” This intentional design creates an environment where guests feel both welcome and indulged, encouraging lively conversations and shared moments. Adjacent to these grand spaces, the light-filled morning room provides a charming contrast. Here, gleaming hardwoods reflect the abundant light streaming through more floor-to-ceiling steel windows. A gorgeous vintage Murano glass and chrome Sputnik chandelier serves as a dazzling focal point, while a richly stained walnut cabinet, topped with pristine white Calacatta Gold marble, adds a touch of bespoke elegance. This room, perfect for casual breakfasts or quiet contemplation, seamlessly integrates luxury with everyday living.
The kitchen in this Highland Park Texas Modern home is so visually stunning and functionally superb that it virtually begs to be featured in a high-end culinary television special. Perhaps Daltxrealestate.com should consider venturing into the realm of luxury food showcasing? This is precisely the kind of gourmet kitchen that inspires even the most reluctant cook to don an apron and experiment, transforming those accustomed to takeout or dining out into eager culinary artists. At its heart are the breathtaking book-matched white Calacatta Gold marble counters and walls. “Book-matched” refers to the meticulous technique where two consecutive slabs of marble are cut and polished to create a mirror image, then placed side-by-side, much like an open book. This process results in a spectacular, continuous pattern that is less a countertop and more a magnificent piece of natural art, infusing the entire space with an unparalleled sense of luxury and bespoke craftsmanship. The pristine white marble with its characteristic golden veins creates an atmosphere of bright sophistication, making every culinary endeavor feel like a high-end experience.
The private quarters of this distinguished Highland Park Texas Modern residence are thoughtfully situated on the second floor, adhering to a time-honored architectural tradition that prioritizes privacy and tranquility. Personally, I appreciate this classic approach, preferring my master bedroom to be a serene sanctuary, far removed from the public entertaining spaces. The master suite in this home takes this concept to an entirely new level, commencing with its own private foyer—a luxurious vestibule that must truly be seen to be believed, setting an immediate tone of grandeur and exclusivity. Interior designer Sherry Hayslip, renowned for her impeccable taste and ability to craft sophisticated environments, collaborated closely with the current owners. Her expert touch is exquisitely evident throughout the home, most notably in the layers of luxury and refined comfort that define the master suite, where every detail has been curated to perfection.
The master bedroom itself is a haven of elegance and comfort, boasting a magnificent 12-foot cathedral plank ceiling that adds an extraordinary sense of volume and architectural interest. The walls are adorned with exquisite Elitis wall coverings, their textures and patterns contributing to a rich, layered aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite ample natural light while offering picturesque views, and crucially, they are framed by my absolute essential: elegant, custom blackout draperies. For those acquiring a home from sellers with discerning taste and the guidance of an exceptional designer, one of the greatest bonuses is inheriting flawless fixtures, stunning wallpapers, and bespoke window treatments that perfectly complement the space. This Highland Park gem delivers on all fronts, embodying a level of finish and detail that is truly unparalleled.
Alongside the kitchen, the master bathroom often serves as a make-or-break element in a luxury home, and this one is nothing short of spectacular. Designed as a truly indulgent spa-like retreat, it features separate, meticulously appointed spaces for each partner. The ladies’ bath, in particular, boasts a captivating cathedral ceiling that adds an airy, expansive feel, creating an atmosphere of serene luxury. It’s outfitted with a sumptuous Victoria + Albert soaking tub, perfect for unwinding after a long day, complemented by a convenient towel warming rack and a discreet flat-screen television for ultimate relaxation. Beyond these lavish amenities, a truly exceptional feature sets this master bathroom apart: a dedicated hair shampoo station room. This bespoke detail is, without exaggeration, the crème de la crème of any master bathroom, eliminating the need for salon visits and offering unparalleled convenience and luxury right at home.
Meanwhile, the gentleman of the house enjoys his own private bathroom, a sophisticated space highlighted by a separate double steam shower showcasing a Thermasol rain shower with invigorating body sprays. This personal oasis ensures a rejuvenating experience every time. The gentleman’s bath also includes a private toilet room and a fully equipped wet bar, complete with a sleek stainless-steel bar sink and a SubZero refrigerator. This thoughtful inclusion means a refreshing drink is always within reach, catering to every need and desire. With such comprehensive and luxurious features, one might genuinely ask: what else could possibly be needed in a master retreat?
A special mention must be made of the truly impressive master closet, a space so grand it rivals the size of a small room. This exceptional scale is due to the current owners’ ingenious decision to incorporate a fourth bedroom into the existing master suite footprint, creating what might just be the finest closet in Dallas. Should future owners require that fourth bedroom, a quick and simple conversion is entirely feasible. However, for those who relish the luxury of an expansive wardrobe, this space is a dream come true. The custom-finished, vaulted plank ceiling is adorned with an oversized Murano chandelier, while vintage 1960s Murano sconces cast a warm, inviting glow, adding a touch of timeless glamour. The closet features ample mirrored and glass display cabinets, an expansive central island for effortless organization, and a dedicated vanity desk area, all topped with luxurious Calacatta marble counters. Every detail has been meticulously considered to create a highly functional yet utterly opulent dressing experience. In addition to the magnificent master suite, two equally well-appointed guest suites are also located on the second floor, ensuring comfort and privacy for visitors. For seamless access to the home’s lower-level amenities, including the impressive wine cellar, state-of-the-art exercise room, and dedicated media rooms, a convenient elevator swiftly whisks residents and guests to their desired destinations.
While I could dedicate an entire book to the boundless splendors of this Highland Park Texas Modern home, suffice it to say that its appeal extends far beyond a mere list of amenities. It stands as a testament to the fact that, so often, a property’s list price fails to capture its true, intrinsic value. In this exceptional case, offered at $9.95 million, the discerning buyer is truly acquiring incredible value. To own a timeless, architect-designed home that seamlessly blends historical elegance with contemporary luxury, situated in one of the most prestigious and desirable locations in Dallas, is not just a real estate transaction—it is, undeniably, the ultimate dream. This residence is more than just a house; it is a legacy, meticulously crafted to endure and inspire for generations.
David Stocker perfectly encapsulates the ethos behind such a magnificent creation: “We deliberately embark on a journey with people when we design a home. It’s akin to being a writer; you’re gently guiding readers from one paragraph to the next, ultimately leading them to the satisfying conclusion of a book. You don’t reveal every secret at the outset.” This philosophy underpins every thoughtful detail at 3701 Lexington Avenue, ensuring that discovery and delight are woven into the very fabric of the home. Stocker believes deeply in the ripple effect of quality design: “A truly great house contributes to a great neighborhood. A great neighborhood, in turn, fosters a great city.” He concludes with a profound sense of pride: “It’s definitely with immense pride when I drive by this home. It truly narrates an interesting and enduring story.” And that captivating story awaits its next chapter when you connect with Allie Beth Allman listing agent Doris Jacobs to arrange a private viewing of this stunning masterpiece at 3701 Lexington Avenue and make it uniquely your own.
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 dogs, international travel, history, white paint, champagne, artificial turf, and Tudor and Midcentury Modern homes, and any house designed by Clifford Hutsell knows no bounds. Her father was a spy, so she keeps secrets very well! Find Karen at www.eubankstaging.com.