Dallas’ Most Iconic Mansion: The Turtle Creek Drive Estate Acquired by a Real Housewife
In the exclusive world of Dallas luxury real estate, few properties command as much attention or boast such a storied past as the legendary estate on Turtle Creek Drive. This architectural marvel, famously known as Casa Bellamini, recently changed hands in a deal that has captivated the city. One of Dallas’ own Real Housewives, Stephanie, and her entrepreneurial husband, Travis, known for their successful house-flipping ventures in Los Angeles, have secured what many are calling the bargain of the century. This acquisition brings a fresh wave of celebrity glamor to a home already steeped in unique history and unparalleled luxury.
The journey of this magnificent property began in 2005 when it was originally conceived and built by Braden Power, a visionary who spared no expense in creating a truly one-of-a-kind residence. From its inception, Casa Bellamini was designed to be a showstopper, famed for its extraordinary features, including an indoor swimming pool dramatically situated in the main foyer. Power’s commitment to excellence was evident in every detail, utilizing only the highest quality materials and implementing design elements with extravagant flair. “When Braden thought one element was wonderful, he put in ten,” as the saying goes, even adding charming swans to the property’s opulent landscape.
An Unrivaled Master Suite: The Epitome of Luxury Living
The second floor of Casa Bellamini is predominantly dedicated to an expansive and sumptuously appointed master suite, a private sanctuary that redefines luxury. This sprawling retreat encompasses approximately sixty percent of the upstairs living space, offering an unparalleled level of comfort and indulgence. The master closet, for instance, is not merely a storage area but a destination in itself, rivaling the size and sophistication of the couture department at Neiman Marcus. It features a spacious sitting room, a convenient wet bar, a dedicated desk area, and even a discreet spot for television viewing, making it a truly functional and elegant space for preparation and relaxation.
Adding to the suite’s allure is an indoor jacuzzi spa, seamlessly integrated into an upstairs media room. This unique setup allows residents to luxuriate in the oversized spa while enjoying their favorite entertainment, with clothing entirely optional – “Mais oui,” indeed. Imagine unwinding after a long day, soaking in warm, bubbling waters while catching up on the latest shows. This level of personalized luxury extends to a whole room dedicated solely to a lavish shower experience, a separate elegant bathtub room, and a practical yet stylish coffee/wine bar. Of course, amidst all these exquisite amenities, there remains a beautifully appointed room specifically for restful sleep, offering a serene escape within this grand personal oasis.
Grandeur on the Ground Floor and a Storied Past
The ground floor of Casa Bellamini mirrors the upstairs opulence, featuring two gourmet kitchens designed to cater to both intimate family meals and grand entertaining. Elegant formal living and dining areas provide ample space for hosting, while the infamous pooled foyer continues to be a central talking point, creating a dramatic entrance that leaves a lasting impression. Beyond the interiors, the estate boasts a fabulous infinity exterior pool and an exquisitely landscaped yard, all overlooking the tranquil beauty of Turtle Creek, making it a picturesque setting for outdoor gatherings.
This iconic Dallas property, affectionately named Casa Bellamini, has long held a special place in the hearts of those familiar with Dallas’s architectural treasures. It even garnered national attention, being featured on HGTV’s “Million Dollar Room,” showcasing its unique design and lavish amenities to a wider audience. However, despite its inherent grandeur, the home faced challenges in the real estate market during its initial sale attempts. After Braden Power completed construction, the market proved uncooperative, a reflection of the broader economic downturn following the Lehman Brothers crisis.
The house’s real estate journey through the years has been as dynamic as its design. In early 2010, esteemed agent Erin Mathews first listed the property for $6,900,000, relisting it again in July of the same year, but without success. Even the legendary Marilyn Hoffman took a turn, raising the asking price to $7,900,000. In January 2011, Chris Lowdon listed it at the same price point, equating to a staggering $929.41 per square foot. During this period of market uncertainty and multiple listings, Braden Power made a significant modification: he covered the daring pool in the main foyer, perhaps in an attempt to broaden its appeal.
A New Era for Casa Bellamini: Lee Bailey’s Transformation
The real estate adage, “You always want to be the first-born, the second wife, and the third agent,” proved true for Casa Bellamini. Enter Doris Jacobs, a prominent figure in Dallas luxury real estate, who successfully brokered the sale on March 24, 2011. The buyer was none other than Lee Bailey, then the recently divorced ex-wife of restaurateur Ed Bailey, who acquired the property for a significant $7,900,000. Lee Bailey embarked on a mission to infuse the home with a new sense of refined elegance, steering it away from its reputation for wild parties and transforming it into a respectable, sophisticated residence.
Under Lee’s meticulous guidance, the home underwent substantial enhancements. She collaborated with Sherry Hayslip, whose husband, Cole, was the original architect of the home, and sought the expertise of renowned interior designer Trisha Wilson to refine the interiors. A symbolic gesture of this transformation was the uncovering of the swimming pool in the foyer, restoring one of the house’s most iconic and daring features. These efforts, coupled with over a million dollars in renovations, breathed new life into Casa Bellamini, positioning it for its next chapter.
The 2016 Sale: A Modern Fairy Tale Ending for Stephanie and Travis
Fast forward to 2016, and Lee Bailey decided it was time to sell, enlisting Doris Jacobs once again. With a much healthier real estate market and the benefit of extensive renovations, the home was listed at $8,895,000. However, the sales process took an unexpected turn in June when Lee made a surprising decision to switch agents, moving to Kelly Watson with Keller Williams Urban, a delightful professional originally from Zimbabwe, South Africa. The biggest shock, however, came with the involvement of Concierge Auctions, a firm known for its ability to facilitate swift and high-profile sales.
Described by Concierge Auctions as a property for “the elite and someone who really loves to entertain high-end black-tie, but also casual affairs,” Casa Bellamini generated significant buzz. The auction culminated on November 14, 2016, with a sale price that stunned many in the Dallas real estate community. Are you ready? The property sold for a remarkable $5,010,000, a figure less than its Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD) valuation. This incredible acquisition marked a new beginning for Casa Bellamini, now under the ownership of Stephanie and Travis, fresh from their successful house-flipping ventures in Los Angeles. Indeed, Travis’s knack for real estate deals certainly extends beyond lockers to these magnificent “knockers” of the market!
An Architectural Homage and Unparalleled Craftsmanship
This Mediterranean showplace is not just a house; it’s a piece of art, originally modeled after The Villa, Casa Casuarina in Miami Beach. This iconic property served as Gianni Versace’s legendary South Beach pied-à-terre, now transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, and Casa Bellamini beautifully echoes its grandeur and style. Architect Cole Smith truly outdid himself in the construction of this Dallas masterpiece. The exquisite barrel clay tile roof is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, while the indoor reflective heated, saltwater pool, lined with shimmering Bisazza glass tiles, creates a stunning focal point at the foot of the fireplace in the grand foyer. To ensure year-round comfort, even with an indoor pool, the surrounding flooring is heated, and a state-of-the-art HVAC system guarantees not a trace of chlorine or humidity, maintaining a perfect ambiance.
Under Lee Bailey’s sophisticated eye, the recent $1 million in renovations transformed Casa Bellamini into a truly modern marvel. The property now spans 8,631 square feet, offering four luxurious bedrooms, five full bathrooms, and one half-bath. Designed for grand living and entertaining, it boasts six distinct gathering areas and two elegant dining spaces. Comfort and warmth are provided by five interior fireplaces and two exterior fireplaces, creating inviting atmospheres throughout the home. Convenience is key with three wet bars, including one cleverly integrated into that fabulous master closet. Nine balconies offer serene views, while a covered loggia provides a perfect outdoor retreat. A creek-side lounging area, two pools, and multiple spas complete the resort-like amenities. The gorgeous, meticulously landscaped grounds are a feast for the eyes, complemented by a three-car detached garage. While the article jokingly mentions a “partridge in a pear tree,” the presence of many graceful swans on the property is a delightful reality, and if they ever choose to fly upstream, a replacement order is just a click away.
This home, with its decadent features and lavish amenities, possesses a unique charm. It is at once incredibly sexy and yet exudes a warm, inviting ambiance, a rare combination for homes of this impressive size. One might even playfully suggest that in Braden Power’s era of ownership, a certain vivacious energy permeated the very air, making it an extraordinarily captivating space.
The Heart of the Home: A Chef’s Dream Kitchen
Stephanie and her family are sure to adore the kitchen, which defies the typical utilitarian workspace. It is intimately integrated into the main living area, offering a stunning view that transforms cooking into an experience. Appliances, including top-tier brands like Bosch, Thermador, SubZero, Dacor, and GE Profile, are ingeniously hidden behind custom-carved walnut-paneled doors, maintaining a seamless aesthetic. This thoughtful design ensures that while fully equipped for any culinary endeavor, the kitchen remains an elegant extension of the living space. Stephanie and Travis, rest assured, your private chef will be absolutely thrilled with this magnificent setup.
A Genius Home: Beyond Smart, It’s Intuitive
While many homes boast “smart” features, Casa Bellamini elevates the concept to a “genius” level, akin to a Mensa-level intelligence in residential technology. With the simple push of a button, not only do lights illuminate and fireplaces ignite, but cascading fountains spring to life, and instant music fills the air. The list of automated wonders extends far beyond, creating an environment where every desire is anticipated and met with effortless grace. Given its sophisticated design and technological prowess, one can only imagine the incredible filming opportunities this residence will offer, adding another layer to its storied legacy.
Symmetrical grand staircases gracefully flank either side of the majestic foyer, ascending to the second floor and leading to the aforementioned luxurious master suite. The dressing area within this suite is particularly enchanting, arguably second only to the legendary one at Champ d’Or. It features exquisite walnut closets, a comfortable seating area, and its own private balcony. Every opulent dressing area, after all, requires a balcony – a perfect spot to sip champagne while contemplating the ideal evening gown for any grand occasion.
The master bathroom is equally captivating, a space so extraordinary that the word “bathroom” scarcely does it justice; it is more accurately described as a “bath world.” This extravagant retreat features a glass-tiled spa-pool with a soothing waterfall, a cozy fireplace, a polished marble wet bar, a dedicated spa media room, and plush lounge seating. All these elements are essential because, truly, the party and ultimate relaxation often begin and end right here, within the private confines of this magnificent sanctuary.
The Backyard Oasis: An Entertainment Paradise
Beyond the architectural splendor of the interiors, the backyard of Casa Bellamini is an entertainment central, an outdoor oasis that stretches across almost an acre of meticulously designed land. To simply call it a “backyard” would be a disservice to its exquisite offerings. Here, one finds a luxurious covered loggia, perfect for al fresco dining or lounging, accompanied by a stately limestone-surrounded fireplace for cooler evenings. The infinity pool offers breathtaking views and a refreshing escape, while a charming butterfly garden adds a touch of natural beauty. Further enhancing this outdoor paradise is a tented creekside gazebo, complete with a comfortable lounging area and, as you might guess, yet another inviting fireplace. Every element of this outdoor space, from the initial vision to Lee Bailey’s meticulous enhancements, has been carefully curated to make it more majestic, more desirable, and truly unparalleled.
A Legacy Continues on Turtle Creek Drive
Casa Bellamini’s journey through the Dallas real estate market is a testament to its unique allure and enduring prestige. From Braden Power’s audacious vision to Lee Bailey’s elegant refinement, and now to the glamorous ownership of Stephanie and Travis, this home continues to capture the imagination. Its blend of audacious design, unparalleled luxury, and a prime location on Turtle Creek Drive ensures its status as one of Dallas’s most talked-about properties. We can’t seem to stay away from its story for very long, and it seems, neither can the “Real Housewives” who now call this iconic address home. Stay tuned, as the next chapter of this magnificent estate promises to be as captivating as its past.
