5 Great Charles Dilbeck Homes to Kick Off Your Monday Right

Charles S. Dilbeck, for you newbies to Dallas, was a prolific and eclectic architect in Dallas from 1935 to 1969. In a 1979 interview with urban planner Alan Mason, he said he was the first architect to develop a true Texas ranch house. While his peers O’Neil Ford and David Williams were besotted with the Hill Country style of limestone farmhouses with metal roofs, Dilbeck was inspired by the ranch houses of the Texas Panhandle. The problem in identifying so many of his creations is that he was also inspired by Irish cottages and styles ranging from French provincial to Colonial. Eclectic is the central word when it comes to Dilbeck.

This Ranch Will Really Move You: Paigebrooke Farm In Westlake

Address: 1 Paigebrooke, Westlake

The rambling, half-timbered structure was designed by Charles Dilbeck in 1938, and is chock full of artisan handiwork and delightful surprises in almost every room. Not only is it a ranch house originally designed by one of Dallas’ most famous architects, it was commissioned by the prominent Dealey family.

Even more: the home was lovingly restored in 1977 after it was wrapped and moved in six pieces to its present land location — that’s right! This house was wrapped up like a delicate holiday ornament in Tyvek and moved on steel beams where it was put back together, melded, enhanced, and perfected in a beautiful, country like setting on 18 acres.

— Read more about Paigebrooke, listed in 2011 for $7.9 million.

Dilbeck Treasure on Shenandoah, One of the “Four Corner Sisters,” Reduced by $50K and Snapped Up!

Address: 4144 Shenandoah St, Dallas

Inspired by Dilbeck’s time in the Loire Valley in France, this castle-like home was designed upon his return and built in 1934. It’s one of the four famous Dilbecks on every corner of the intersection of Douglas and Shenandoah. There are genuine turrets, a balcony and all the wonderful Dilbeck rambling farmhouse feel, the wonderful huge stone fireplace, corner fireplaces, arched doorways, rafters, and stone floors. This is a mini version of Candy’s precious Paigebrook out in Westlake.

Dilbeck had an artist’s vision of how textures and designs would play off each other, what would look striking and unique without feeling unapproachable. That shows throughout this property. Rich woods, brick, stone, and plaster combine in interesting and handsome ways, all illuminated by abundant natural light from the windows, many of them unusual in design. The stately and grand curb appeal also feels a little whimsical with the turret and courtyard. It’s the kind of house that makes you slow down for a better look. 

— Read more about Shenandoah, listed in 2013 for $1.55 million and 2017 for $1.995 million.

The Walton House Is a Beautifully Renovated Charles Dilbeck Bluffview Estate

Address: 4731 Wildwood Road, Dallas

Nestled deep in the rolling hills of Bluffview lies one of the most enchanting homes you’ll ever find in Dallas. This Charles Dilbeck Bluffview estate has retained the whimsical charm that defines the architect. Built in 1935 with Dilbeck’s hallmark walk-in fireplaces, unique brick patterns, and vaulted and beamed ceilings, 4731 Wildwood Road is an architectural encyclopedia of detail.

This Dilbeck Bluffview Estate was built for Carol and James Walton. Among preservationists, it will forever be known as The Walton House and was a highlight of the Preservation Dallas Fall Architectural Tour last year.

— Read more about Wildwood, listed in March 2019 for $6.499 million.

Quintessential Charles Dilbeck Midcentury Modern in Russwood Acres

Address: 5016 Tanbark

This quintessential Charles Dilbeck Midcentury Modern in Russwood Acres is going to take your breath away. Wait, what did I say? Dilbeck and Midcentury Modern. Do those two terms even go together?

Yes, indeed they do, but rarely.

We generally think of architect Charles Dilbeck as the eclectic dude that was inspired by Tom Mix (look him up, my Millennials) to create whimsical homes with stained glass, iron gates, and fanciful details. Hold that thought. He also created a few Midcentury Modern masterpieces. This Dilbeck Midcentury Modern at 5016 Tanbark is one of the most striking examples I’ve ever seen.

— Read more about Tanbark, listed in May 2019 for $2.195 million.

Iconic Lakewood Estate by Charles Dilbeck

Address:  6726 Lakewood Boulevard, Dallas

We’re lucky to live in a city that offers great residential architecture, from brand-new construction by hip young architects, to treasured historic properties like this iconic Lakewood estate designed by Charles Dilbeck.

The house was built by Dilbeck in 1933 and is commonly known as one of the “Three Lakewood Houses,” as they were built in close proximity to one another. 

— Read more about Lakewood, listed in Jan. 2017 for $3.865 million.