Is Frank Welch’s Texas Modern on North Janmar Drive His Opus?
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Frank D. Welch is one of our most eminent architects. His Texas Modern at 7126 N. Janmar Drive may well be his final opus according to listing agent Kyle Rovinsky with Virginia Cook Realtors. Rovinsky listed this signature property last week for $3.75 million. The 6,600-square-foot, three-story house bears all of the Welch hallmarks: stick ceilings, a generous use of glass, and balanced light. He has always embraced nature and an informal unpretentious style.
“This house represents everything that has made a Welch design so highly prized,” Rovinsky said.
Most of our readers know Welch as a protégé of O’Neil Ford and a prolific genius who has designed everything from iconic personal residences to some of the most recognizable educational institutions, religious structures, and recreational facilities in Texas. St. Alcuin Montessori, Lamplighter School, White Rock Montessori, Fellowship Bible Church, St Gabriel, Barton Creek Club, and Dallas Park Pavilion are just a few of the local structures he’s designed.
He’s worked extensively in Midland and West Texas where the dramatic skies and vast open plains clearly influenced his style and his emphasis on creating views. The Janmar house gives a distinct feel of living in a treehouse in the midst of a forest despite being in one of the most conveniently located neighborhoods in Dallas.
Frank D. Welch’s signature stick ceiling in the study.
“The open living area has a balcony on one side and a patio on the other – both separated from the main area by glass walls which really brings the outside in,” Rovinsky said. “It creates dramatic views that tell a story year round. It also creates an entertaining space and flow that is unmatched.”
Heated floors, steam shower, and a view of the trees — what more could you need?
The house has five bedrooms and five bathrooms, as well as a powder bath. The Bulthaup kitchen fits perfectly, keeping with the Texas Modern look. Sleek white cabinetry, quartz counters, induction cooking, and Miele appliances round it out.
“My favorite thing about the house is the sleek, modern profile from the backyard,” Rovinsky said. “Looking back at the house, you see modern details that are breathtaking and very sexy. You get a glimpse of the construction level — the concrete pilings that support the house. It just looks so cool.”
