This Bluffview Home Might be The Best Dilbeck in Dallas

It’s inspirational to see what happens when intelligence and thoughtful design meet a deep consideration for history. This Bluffview Dilbeck offers an exemplary model of taking an architecturally significant home and making it work for modern lifestyles without losing the architect’s signature elements. 

Nothing I can think of is truly more defining of our architectural history in Dallas than a home built by Charles S. Dilbeck. The man was prolific and eclectic. Between 1935 and 1969, Dilbeck designed hundreds of residential homes as well as hotels, restaurants, apartment buildings, shopping centers, and country clubs.  

Stephen Karlisch Photography for Studio Thomas James

Trying to define his style is a challenge. He was captivated by everything from Ranch-style to French Provincial, resulting in his rich mix of textures and materials, always assembled in an imaginative way. I don’t think there was ever an architect who loved an enormous fireplace, vaulted and beamed ceilings, and massive brick columns like Dilbeck did.

Of course, when delving into Dilbeck’s history we always turn to the ultimate authority on all things Dilbeck, Willis Winters.

The house was designed in 1935 for James and Dorothy Walton and expanded by Dilbeck for Dr. W.G. Reddick in 1941. The house was a two-bedroom French Norman country cottage built in the wilds of Bluffview. A significant portion of the original house was fortunately retained and incorporated into a much larger residence that is there today. The original Dilbeck cottage is still visible and the interior has been updated, with several key Dilbeck features intact.

Willis Winters, FAIA

Nestled in the middle of 1.24 acres, it has had yet another flawless update since we featured it in 2019.

“The owners worked with architect Ralph Deusing and builder Randy Clowdus on the first remodel, which included a media room, updates to the principal suite and fireplace mantles, and the addition of a pool cabana,” Compass Real Estate listing agent Amy Detwiler said. “They maintained the features and characteristics of Dilbeck, even mimicking the wavy brick to match the original architecture.”

An extensive renovation and update was done in 2021-22 under the direction of Philip Vanderford of Studio Thomas James and Lloyd Construction Consultants. This included opening up the kitchen and family room, moving the dining room, and redesigning the bathrooms. I’m not sure this home could be more perfect.

There are first-floor bedroom suites, including the massive owner’s private retreat, three bedrooms on the second level, a media room, a wine cellar, a den, a study, and a gym spread over 8,144 square feet.

Step outside, and you’re in another world. Landscaped to perfection by M. M. Moore Construction, you have 1.25 acres of serenity and privacy. There is a gorgeous 1,168-square-foot guest cottage, dining and living spaces, a pool, a koi pond, and a stream surrounding the patios.

One of the most charming things about this property is the understated facade. When you open the door, the architectural drama that unfolds is an unexpected delight. 

Wildwood has been our own little piece of paradise, nestled away in Bluffview estates. We have had many years of unforgettable gatherings, from football games in the front yard to pool parties with family and friends.

Owners

We have a lot of beautiful new construction in Dallas, but we seldom find a home of this architectural stature, fully updated. It’s certainly a rare opportunity. 

Detwiler has 4731 Wildwood Road listed for 11.195 million. I expect it to be snapped up on the MLS tour because this is the home all our luxury buyers have been waiting for. Catch the MLS tour on Monday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.