While it may seem like North Texas has become a bit of a ghost town with many schools on spring break, it’s still hustling with news of fundraising to come. The latest to arrive is Preservation Park Cities’ 2022 Historic Home Tour in May.
2022 Home Tour Chair Amy Beale along with Preservation Park Cities Presidents Tish Kay (2012-2022) and Burton Rhodes (2022-2023) have just announced a cornucopia of activities as part of this year’s virtual tour of four showplaces in the Park Cities.
There are three opportunities to support Preservation Park Cities’ mission, including the following:
The Patron Premier at Inwood Theater on Monday, May 2— Starting at 7 p.m., the event will include a cocktail reception followed by a sneak peak of the tour on the theater’s big screen. Individual tickets are $100 with sponsorships ranging from $250 per couple to $5,000. Tickets will also include access to the virtual tour.
Historic Home Tour Underwriters Party on Wednesday, May 4 — Held at a recently renovated historical Highland Park estate from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., sponsorships begin at $750 per couple up to $5,000 with limited availability.
Preservation Park Cities Virtual Historic Home Tour on Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8 — The virtual tour of the four residences will be accessible in the comfort of the ticket holder’s own home. Tickets are going for $25 with sponsorships available here.
Now for the homes on some of the Park Cities’ most beautiful avenues. In addition to each one being sponsored, here is a brief description by Joan Clark to give a feel of what lies within and the history behind them.
- 3722 Gillon Avenue owned by Lisa and John Rocchio and sponsored by The Rhodes Group — Completed in 1916, this Classical Revival residence is a stunning tribute to preeminent architect Hal Thomson’s talent. Originally built for Dallas attorney Samuel Leake, the home is a hybrid design that includes a symmetrical facade with subdued Italian Renaissance detailing. Unique partially fluted Ionic columns form three bays at the one story front porch entrance. Three Palladian windows with fluted columns above the porch reinforce this feature. Rich entablature along with medallions and quoins add to the elegant exterior. Only the fourth family to own this landmark home, John and Lisa Rocchio made a conscious decision at the onset of this project to preserve and protect the character of the architecture. Jan Showers spearheaded the interior design details, and Ralph Duesing assisted with the architectural renovation. The Rocchio family, to their credit, comprehended the significance of the architecture represented in this incomparable residence. As owners they inherited a trove of legacy documents including deeds and photographs which all provide interesting historical context. With care, attention to detail, and sensitivity they have mixed luxury and livability in their refreshing contemporary update to an iconic Highland Park home.
- 3711 Arcady Avenue owned by Courtney and Charlie Petit and sponsored by Methodist Hospital Dallas — Architect George Marble designed the French Chateauesque home at 4311 Arcady, and this project clearly illustrates his favorite style. It strains the imagination to realize this was a spec home built for Dines and Kraft in 1937. From the hipped roof pavilions to the octagonal turret, the architectural detail in the roof design alone is a marvel. Brick detailing under the eaves and the heavy timber Juliet balconies with gridded railing reflect the influence of iconic architect Charles Dilbeck, who was once Marble’s partner. A mix of Gothic and Roman arch treatments to windows and doors creates a romantic visual feast. The numerous architectural and interior design features in this home are simply indescribable. What a study in scale, proportion, and charm 4311 Arcady represents. Personal and custom touches can transform historic homes in the most remarkable ways. This story has a happy ending due to the wise choices, passion, and appreciation of the caretakers who have adored living in this unique home designed and created by a talented architect and a renowned builder.
- 4305 Lorraine Avenue owned by Laurie and John Harper and sponsored by Cynthia Beaird/Christine McKenney, Allie Beth Allman and Associates — Arguably one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture in Dallas, 4305 Lorraine was built in 1929 by legendary architects Fooshee and Cheek. Left in its original state, the entire facade of the home is a panorama of layered and complex masonry and stone craftsmanship. Clad primarily in Oklahoma fieldstone and SMU brick, the triple basket weave, herringbone, and running bond brick patterns are attention grabbers. Couple those design elements with the half timbering, a unique plaster and stone chimney, and intricate corbeling details and the result is this stately masterpiece. A main front facing gable accentuates the Gothic arch stone surround encircling the original carved English oak and leaded glass front door. What a rarity to find a home that was meticulously designed for a 360-degree perspective. The Harpers considered enclosing the beautiful porch on the east end of the home but realized it would compromise the unusual pillow topped stone columns and Gothic arches. Their restraint and passion for preservation is reflected throughout this significant landmark residence.
- 3717 Maplewood Avenue owned by Alexandra and Ford Halbardier and sponsored by Avon Cleaners — Tucked away behind a wall of greenery, a winding path leads to a timeless modern architectural jewel. Built in 1964 by commercial specialists, Pratt Fox and Henderson construction company, this home is a study in contemporary detail and craftsmanship. Current owner Alex Halbardier fell in love the moment she saw the eleven-foot front door with glass panel lights by Octavio Medellín. The interior walls are brick and Honduran mahogany. Small bronze studs in the wooden walls coupled with masonry details over the door frames speak to the artisanal elements found throughout this home. Original stained brick floors complete the interior. Previous owners, the Hochstim family, generously parted with the original mahogany buffet and dining room table that were designed for this area. This story would be incomplete without mentioning the warm relationship that developed between the Hochstim and Halbardier families. Vintage photos of the home confirm what true stewards the Halbardier family has been in executing their vision and honoring the past. An impressive 1968 architectural award is still prominently displayed in the entrance area. Transferring this architectural gem to a family who cherishes it is a wonderful expression of historical preservation for not only both families, but also an event the entire community can celebrate.
Funds raised through Home Tour “will be used to help preserve and maintain the Park Cities House at Dallas Heritage Village, support the new PPC archives at the University Park Library, fund PPC’s landmarking initiatives, award scholarships to Highland Park High School graduating seniors planning to study architecture or history and fund the Distinguished Chair for History at Highland Park High School.
* Photo credit: Danny Piassick