University Park Traditional with Turtle Creek Views

It’s easy to assume everyone understands the value of living in University Park, but we have to remember that hundreds of people move to the Dallas-Fort Worth area daily. They have no idea why a neighborhood like University Park is desirable and why in particular this University Park traditional at 6809 Golf Drive is a spectacular option regardless of job location.

University Park, or “UP” as locals refer to it, is almost four square miles of some of the most sought-after real estate in Dallas. Census data from 2010 reports it to be Texas’ best educated city in terms of formal education and the seventh most affluent neighborhood in America. How many neighborhoods boast a leading university — Southern Methodist University — and a museum that houses the largest collection of Spanish Art in the United States — The Meadows Museum? It’s also one of the most family friendly neighborhoods you’ll ever find, anywhere.

In essence, if you can find a house here, you want to nab it. And you especially want to nab this one because it backs up to Turtle Creek. We’re talking a 190-foot-deep lot and a lot of privacy. This gorgeous 6,341-square-foot home is three stories of fabulous family living.

Built by Lewis-Russel Homes in 2006, it’s been beautifully updated resulting in a cleaned-lined, chic, sophisticated, home that has just the right dramatic flair without losing touch with reality, meaning kids are going to feel right at home here. With five bedrooms, six bathrooms and three half bathrooms, a home office, a game room, and a media room there is plenty of room for everyone to have their own space.

One of the clever updates to this home is the staircase, and why we don’t see more of this is perplexing. Frankly, in my humble opinion, every wrought iron staircase should be ripped out and replaced with a glass-paned wonder like this one. It completely changes the feel of the home and creates a fresh, new, classic look.

White is definitely on trend and a relief to see it used in abundance, as it’s another great way to create modern clean space and to also showcase finish-out and light fixtures. Let’s talk about that finish-out and those light fixtures: Wow. The white walls are not just painted, either, they are Venetian plaster which gives you an idea of the subtle detail in the house.

The open-plan family room is anchored by a dramatic oxidized steel fireplace and an aged iron, oversized “Halo” pendant light fixture. French doors open onto the terrace with views of the pool and creek beyond.

The usual iconic culinary appliances are present: Bosch, Wolf, Dacor, and SubZero. One of the many elegant touches is wrapping the vent over the range with the same Travertine tile as the wall behind it. And that may be the most beautiful breakfast room I’ve ever seen. It not only overlooks the creek, you can walk out onto the terrace from here and have your morning coffee.

Heading upstairs, the game room is a show stopper. The main wall is covered in chocolate brown leather. Yes, leather. What a great idea and something we really should see more of. There’s a wet bar just off the area, so no need to trek downstairs for a pick-me-up.

The third floor houses the home theater and a guest room with a private bath. It’s also got a terrific view!

Doris Jacobs with Allie Beth Allman and Associates has just listed this gorgeous home for $3.995 million. The keys to this baby would be the perfect gift this holiday season!