This French Estate in Old Preston Hollow is a Fairytale Dream Come True

For generations, French-inspired architecture has dominated the residential luxury market. We can always attribute that to timeless aesthetics, cultural influence, and historical legacy, but the bottom line is these homes are quite simply the fairy tale castles of our childhood.

It’s synonymous with luxury. No other style of architecture has that quality. It can be warm and comfortable and, at the same time, formal and luxurious.

Lloyd Lumpkins, L. Lumpkins Architects

Architect Elby Martin designed this gem, and as architects go, he is one of our more unsung talents.

After receiving an architecture degree at The University of Texas, Martin founded Elby S. Martin & Associates, Inc., specializing in designing large estate homes for over 25 years. He was the go-to architect for former advertising giant Liener Temerlin when Temerlin and his wife Karla wanted to expand and revive their 1960s home in Maine.

Martin built Marion and Bennett Glazer’s estate and many more beautiful homes in Dallas, like 5335 Meaders Lane and 444 Valley Ridge Road. Martin’s career was cut short by cancer, but his legacy remains not only in his architectural accomplishments but in the generation of young architects he mentored who are now following in his footsteps.

This French estate, with graceful arched openings and expansive galleries, is one of the best examples of his work. The exposed beams and flagstone floor in the kitchen and family room echo the great country homes of Provence and rich organic textures and finishes add to the timeless classic look of the home.

We all know how hard it is to find a substantial residence with acreage in Dallas. This Old Preston Hollow French estate is a rarity in an era when zero lot lines are the rule rather than the exception. Sited on 1.5 acres, this 8,982-square-foot, five-bedroom home has expansive grounds, a gorgeous pool, a guest cabana, and it also features the must-have pickleball court.

When you have a house this significant, mon dieu, it cannot be vacant!

This French estate was staged by the talented team at George Bass Stage & Design. Potential buyers can see just what a move-in ready experience in this French estate looks like. Don’t expect it to be on the market long. Terri Patrick Cox has 5100 Brookview Dr. listed for $6.995 million, and rumor has it there has been a steady stream of interested parties. If you are looking for your fairytale dream castle, this is it