An Architect’s Dream: A Timeless Tuscan Estate in Old Preston Hollow

It’s rare to find a beautifully designed Tuscan estate today. When this one in Mayflower Estates in Old Preston Hollow came to our attention, I began to dig, as always!

I knew Dallas architect Elby S. Martin designed this Tuscan estate. During my research, I found out he was inspired by American architect Addison Mizner, who defined the architectural style of South Florida. In a 2005 Q&A in the Dallas Morning News, Martin noted that Mizner would be one of the four people he’d invite to a fantasy dinner party.

Fun fact: Among Mizner’s custom homes are the former Kennedy estate, La Querida — also known as the Winter White House — in Palm Beach. It’s not at all surprising to find Elby, who passed away not long after completing this estate, was motivated to follow in Mizner’s footsteps and specialize in the design of grand estate homes.

As much as I may think a house to be architecturally flawless, I always turn to an authority in the field to ensure I’ve got it right. And indeed, the home is architecturally spectacular. I called our go-to expert, architect Lloyd Lumpkins, who, like Elby, designs some of the most beautiful estate homes in Dallas.

“The roots of the home are extremely well done,” Lumpkins said. “The scale, proportion, and massing are impeccable.”

Let me tell you, that’s high praise from a fellow architect!

True Tuscan Landscape

What is so enchanting about this Tuscan estate is that you feel transported to Italy from the moment you drive onto the grounds. Harold Leidner is responsible for setting the stage with his striking landscape design, from the formal fountain outside the entrance to over an acre of massive manicured lawns.

But it is the architecture that draws us. It’s romantic without being fussy, rustic yet sophisticated, and it feels as if it’s been in place for generations. Elby was gifted — there is no doubt about that. His formal entry with soaring 24-foot ceilings leading to a 70-foot gallery with a groin-vaulted ceiling has a take your breath away impact. In fact, you have must continually look upwards throughout this home, because every ceiling offers artistic and dramatic elements.

The formal areas are inviting and warm, with a beamed living room that makes you feel as if you could easily kick off your shoes and relax.

The dining room is bathed in a Venetian plaster finish, and looking up once again, you’ll find an artfully panelled ceiling.

This 12,612-square-foot Tuscan estate has the ultimate dream kitchen for serious cooks. Stone walls, a multi-barrel vaulted brick ceiling, and knotty alder wood cabinetry echo the finest Italian home kitchens I’ve seen. Double Sub-Zero refrigerators, Asko dishwashers, Wolf ovens, and a view of the garden complete the dream.

The home has six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and two powder baths. The principal suite is on the first floor with a stone fireplace, views of the grounds, and a 14-foot beamed ceiling.

The second floor can be accessed by staircase or elevator and leads to two spacious en-suite bedrooms with balconies. A billiard room, game room, media room with seven reclining motorized chairs, and a private fitness center round out this level and ensure you never have to leave home.

Whether you are gathering family and friends or entertaining on a grand scale, there is something for everyone in the enormous backyard. Covered and electronically screened patios and an outdoor kitchen make casual dining effortless. A resort-style pool, cabana, sports court, and a private guest house complete the picture of a lifestyle that will meet every family member’s needs.

As Allie Beth Allman listing agent Kyle Crews said, “It’s the perfect residence for the discerning buyer who seeks privacy, space, and peace of mind for all seasons.” Crews and Terri Cox have co-listed 5335 Meaders Lane for $10.250 million.