The elegantly designed living room of the Iris Hollow model home, featuring refined decor and ample natural light, built by Sharif & Munir Uncustomary Custom Homes. — The exquisite living room of the Iris Hollow model home, a testament to the luxurious design by Sharif & Munir Uncustomary Custom Homes. All photos by Danny Piassick.

Discover Iris Hollow: Luxury Living in Dallas’s Historic Preston Hollow

For over three decades, Mickey Munir has been a distinguished name in Dallas’s luxury homebuilding scene, crafting an array of remarkable residences across the city, particularly within the coveted Preston Hollow area. As the visionary founder and CEO of Sharif & Munir Uncustomary Custom Homes, Munir brings unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence to every project. His latest endeavor, Iris Hollow, represents a pinnacle of sophisticated living within this prestigious enclave.

Iris Hollow is not merely a collection of houses; it is a meticulously planned community of eight exquisite homes, each embodying the unique “uncustomary custom” philosophy that defines Sharif & Munir. Ranging in size from a generous 5,300 to 6,200 square feet and starting at $2.35 million, these residences offer spacious elegance tailored to discerning homeowners. The development is strategically designed to appeal to one of Munir’s most rapidly expanding buyer demographics: the empty-nester who desires to downsize in space but significantly upgrade in quality and lifestyle.

A Legacy of Innovation: The Doolin Estate and Iris Hollow’s Storied Past

What makes Iris Hollow truly distinctive is the rich, Texas-sized history woven into the very fabric of its land. The 3.5-acre estate, strategically located at the intersection of Hillcrest and Forest lanes, was once the cherished home of Charles Elmer Doolin and later his widow, Mary Kathryn “Kitty” Doolin. C.E. Doolin was not just any legendary Texas businessman; he was the inventive mind behind two iconic American snacks: the Frito corn chip and the Cheeto. His entrepreneurial journey, starting in the depths of the Great Depression, laid the foundation for a global snack food empire.

The historic Doolin Estate at 6723 Forest Lane in Preston Hollow, Dallas, before the development of Iris Hollow. — A historical view of the original Doolin Estate at 6723 Forest Lane, a site now transformed into the luxurious Iris Hollow community.

The tale of the Frito chip itself is one of ingenuity and perseverance. In the 1930s, during an era of profound economic hardship, Doolin encountered a Mexican man in San Antonio selling unique extruded, fried masa chips at a gas station. Recognizing their potential, Doolin purchased the patent and the small customer base of 14 for a mere $100. He immediately began selling these innovative corn chips from his San Antonio confectionery, dedicating years to perfecting their recipe. His commitment was so profound that he even hybridized his own specialized strains of corn, contracting Texas farmers to cultivate these unique varieties to ensure the perfect taste profile for his chips. This relentless pursuit of quality and distinctiveness echoes the ethos found in the homes of Iris Hollow today.

Doolin’s grand visions for his humble corn chips extended beyond mere production. He embarked on ambitious plans, including the opening of a “Casa de Frito” in Dallas, a groundbreaking culinary concept that would later be replicated at Disneyland in 1955. It was during this period that he and his wife, Mary Kathryn, affectionately known as Kitty, made their home at the Hillcrest and Forest estate. Kitty Doolin was a culinary innovator in her own right, responsible for creating many of the now-famous recipes that graced the backs of Frito corn chip bags, such as the beloved Frito pie and the whimsical Frito jets (corn chips dipped in chocolate).

Kitty’s Enduring Legacy: The Inspiration Behind Iris Hollow

Following C.E. Doolin’s passing in 1959, Kitty continued to reside on the estate until her death in June 2009. Throughout her life, Kitty Doolin nurtured a passion for horticulture, cultivating an extraordinary collection of over 110 distinct varieties of irises. Thousands of these vibrant flowers flourished across the estate, painting the landscape with a riot of colors and scents. It is this beautiful and enduring botanical legacy that inspired the name of the new luxury development: Iris Hollow. In a touching tribute to her passion, many of Kitty’s original iris bulbs were meticulously preserved and replanted along the community’s front wall and within the serene center of its cul-de-sac.

Further cementing the Doolin family’s historical connection to the land, the main street within the Iris Hollow development has been thoughtfully named Doolin Court. This not only honors the inventors of iconic American snacks but also imbues the community with a unique sense of place and historical depth, setting it apart from other luxury developments in Dallas.

The elegant exterior of a model home for sale in Iris Hollow, showcasing refined architectural details and lush landscaping. — An inviting view of the meticulously crafted model home currently available for sale in Iris Hollow, exemplifying the community’s design philosophy.

The entrepreneurial spirit that once guided Charles Doolin seems to have lingered on this very land, as Iris Hollow has experienced phenomenal success, with properties selling at an unprecedented pace. The community is already nearing a complete sell-out, a testament to its unique appeal and the reputation of Sharif & Munir.

An interior shot showcasing the sophisticated kitchen or living area of an Iris Hollow home, featuring high-end finishes and an open concept.

Mickey Munir reflects on this triumph, stating, “We’ve been building in that area since 1979 and we’ve bought seven or eight whole cul-de-sacs and developed all the houses in them. Every one of them has been a home run, but Iris Hollow is truly one of the most successful neighborhoods we’ve ever built.” This extraordinary success underscores the meticulous planning, superior craftsmanship, and deep understanding of the luxury market that Sharif & Munir brings to every project.

A spacious and elegantly furnished dining area or living space within an Iris Hollow luxury home, emphasizing comfort and high design.

Of the initial eight exclusive lots, all but one have already been acquired. Additionally, a stunning spec house and the beautifully appointed model home remain available for sale. However, given the rapid absorption rate within Iris Hollow, these exceptional opportunities are not expected to last long.

Designed for the Discerning Empty-Nester: Luxury Without Compromise

Iris Hollow distinguishes itself from many neighboring developments through its commitment to expansive, private spaces. Unlike communities with zero-lot line properties, each home in Iris Hollow is situated on a generous one-third of an acre, offering residents more privacy, green space, and a feeling of individual estate living. Furthermore, the community benefits from being gated, providing an enhanced sense of security and exclusivity that is highly sought after in luxury real estate.

Munir highlights the demographic triumph of Iris Hollow, noting that their primary buyers are individuals seeking to transition from larger, often high-maintenance properties without sacrificing an ounce of luxury or lifestyle. “Virtually 95 percent of whom we have sold to in that neighborhood are empty-nesters,” he explains. “They are scaling down in size and scaling up in quality.” This insight perfectly encapsulates the value proposition of Iris Hollow: perfectly sized luxury homes that offer all the amenities and prestige of a grand estate, but with less upkeep, allowing residents more freedom to enjoy their golden years.

A sophisticated and serene bedroom or lounge area in an Iris Hollow luxury home, featuring plush furnishings and elegant decor.

Uncustomary Custom Features: A Glimpse into Iris Hollow’s Opulence

The residences at Iris Hollow are meticulously crafted expressions of pure luxury, where every detail is considered and every material is of the highest quality. These homes are not just structures; they are sanctuaries designed for sophisticated living. Key features include:

Exquisite Exteriors: Natural stone exteriors are complemented by meticulously crafted cast stone and cut stone architectural details, creating timeless facades that exude grandeur.
Durable & Elegant Roofing: Berridge metal standing seam roofs offer both superior longevity and a distinctive, modern aesthetic.
Grand Entryways: Custom Jeld-Wen entry doors, featuring elegant glass panels, provide a welcoming and impressive first impression.
Premium Windows: Double pane insulated Jeld-Wen wood windows ensure energy efficiency, soundproofing, and a classic, refined look.
Interior Doorways: Eight-foot solid core doors, enhanced with custom plaquing and designer hardware, signify quality and attention to detail throughout the home.
Gourmet Kitchens: State-of-the-art Sub Zero/Wolf appliances paired with Miele dishwashers equip kitchens designed for both everyday living and grand entertaining.
Spa-like Master Baths: Master bathrooms boast opulent patterned marble flooring and tub surrounds, creating a luxurious retreat.
Thoughtful Storage: Elaborate master closets feature extensive shelving and custom built-ins, offering unparalleled organization and elegance.
Advanced Lighting Systems: Leutron lighting systems provide sophisticated control over ambiance and energy efficiency.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living: Outdoor living areas are fully equipped with built-in grills and inviting fireplaces, perfect for al fresco dining and relaxation.
Private Recreation: Each home includes a full-sized swimming pool and spa, offering a private oasis for enjoyment and entertainment.
Ample Garaging: Most homes feature three-car garages, with custom-build options available, including one extraordinary residence with an eight-car garage.

An elegantly furnished master bathroom or spa area in an Iris Hollow home, featuring luxurious marble finishes and high-end fixtures.

Secure Your Place in History: Remaining Opportunities at Iris Hollow

Given the exceptional demand, opportunities to own a piece of this unique Dallas legacy are rapidly diminishing. The last available lot in Iris Hollow is priced at $490,000, offering a chance to build a bespoke home in this coveted community. For those seeking immediate occupancy, both the meticulously designed spec home and the beautifully furnished model home are available for around $2.595 million.

The allure of Iris Hollow has even captured the imagination of local real estate expert Candy Evans, who has openly mused about “right-sizing” her own Preston Hollow residence one day. Her endorsement speaks volumes: “What I love about Iris Hollow is the location – you cannot beat this part of town for ease of getting everywhere,” says Candy. “And these homes are built with Sharif-Munir’s custom touch of quality on every square inch.”

Iris Hollow is more than just a luxury development; it’s a living tribute to Dallas’s rich history and a beacon of modern, sophisticated living. It truly is the land that corn chips built, reimagined by Sharif & Munir to honor Kitty Doolin’s legacy while offering a lifestyle of unparalleled quality and convenience for today’s luxury buyer. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary Preston Hollow story.