Classic, Updated Prairie Foursquare in North Oak Cliff

Of course, you can’t authentically live the Winnetka Heights life without a big front porch, and this fantastic home at 110 S. Montclair has a huge one, perfect for casual neighborhood chats. The open, sunny area is perfect for container gardening enthusiasts. I’m already imagining a big, potted hibiscus and some other tropicals in this fantastic spot. Inside, you’ll find wonderful details that allow the lines and classic architecture of this 1930-built home to speak for itself.

First, notice the ample light streaming in through the full-light front door with its large and airy side lights. It highlights the fabulous floor detail in the foyer. Warm neutral paint and classic wide, white moldings make the hardwood floor pattern really shine. 

 

“One of the unique features about the home is that it has four bedrooms, three baths, and a two car garage — a rare find in Winnetka Heights,” Gonzalez said. That makes it a splendid family home, with plenty of room for entertaining and everyday life. “It’s in one of the best neighborhoods in Oak Cliff,” she concurred. 

 

Yes, Winnetka Heights is roundly sought-after, though prices have climbed to where it’s no longer an entry-level neighborhood for those who want a fixer-upper. This 2,214-square-foot foursquare is listed for $435,000, so it’s a deal compared to something similar north of the Trinity, but it’s pricey for those who head south in search of bargains. What I love about this neighborhood is that it is extremely walkable, and the neighborhood association is very active. It’s a historic district, so you can rest assured knowing that McMansions will never crop up next door. You’re close to some of the popular commercial districts of Oak Cliff, but the tree-lined streets and front porches allow you to take a step back in time and slow down. And if you’re looking for an Oak Cliff neighborhood with great public schools, Rosemont Elementary is your best bet, though there are other, quickly improving campuses nearby.

 

The first floor is open without feeling agoraphobic, with a large and bright living room just off the foyer that has sight lines to the dining area. The kitchen, however, is cut off from the living room, though is open to the dining room with a large breakfast bar. Stainless steel appliances, dark espresso cabinetry, granite countertops, and tumbled stone backsplash are understated and easy to love. And thanks to the copious windows, this whole level enjoys pools of light from every angle. Extra storage is remedied by a great butler’s pantry with stylish shelving and built-in wine refrigerator.

 

There’s one bedroom on the first floor, with three more upstairs. The master suite is on the second floor.

 

“The master is really large,  with a separate seating area,” Gonzalez said. Yes, it’s large by any standards, not just historic ones. And what’s even better is the private balcony. The only think I would do is equip that sitting area with a coffee bar and a wine refrigerator, because how could you resist morning coffee and evening sips from this spot? Heavenly!

 

Of course, the kids can have free rein over the grassy, shaded backyard. Green thumbs will adore the opportunity to really make it their own.There’s also a great little deck and detached two-car garage. So while this isn’t one of those lovingly restored Arts & Crafts homes, it’s a great house in a lovely historic district that is fit for everyday family life — all of the makings of a High Caliber Home!