Friday Four Hundred: Need a Reminder of Why Preservation is Important? Check Out This Beautiful Hollywood Heights Tudor

I know that sometimes, preserving historic neighborhoods and architecture can be a big ol’ pain in the butt. Just ask the folks over at Casa Linda Estates who have tried at least twice to pass an NSO (Neighborhood Stabilization Overlay) and failed. Some people say that whittling down property rights in a residential neighborhood makes it harder to sell a home. Others think that any regulation of private property puts a costly burden on homeowners.

But what if historic preservation elevated a neighborhood, made it more consistent, gave it its own personality, and ensured standards that would endure beyond this decade to the next? That’s the story behind Hollywood/Santa Monica — an East Dallas neighborhood that used to be dumpy and ignored — the red-headed stepchild of Lakewood. That was until some very determined neighbors decided to come up with some standards for their community that they could enforce, some rules and regulations to hold others accountable. And what do you see now in Hollywood Heights and Santa Monica? Homes like this amazing 1928 Tudor at 618 Monte Vista.

Marketed by Joe Kacynski for an astonishing $445,000, this gorgeous home is all traditional on the outside — totally in step with the rest of the neighborhood — but inside it is a modern work of art. There are so many great features to this 1,720-square-foot home that you will be bowled over. The gorgeous modern custom millwork and cabinetry, the nooks and doors that make this home so extremely versatile, and the backyard that is begging for a fall soiree — all designed by Coy Talley, an absolute genius who is known for his work at the Perot.

Can you imagine the possibilities? I mean, check out the huge ash pivot door that opens to the dining area, or the gallery hallway with built-in cabinets and drawers. The kitchen, which has some of the most unique counters and cabinets I have ever seen. And the master bathroom, which might inspire the buyers to become Zen practitioners. Of course, not everything is uber modern, as the original stained glass windows are still installed.

With three bedrooms and two baths, this home is worth every bit of its asking price just for the great design that went into it. And you’ll also love the garage, which Talley designed to be a sort of icehouse with sliding doors that open to the terraced backyard.

If you want to see this home up close (and come on, you know you do) it’s open from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday. Run, don’t walk, to check this amazing home out!