A Preston Hollow Beauty Reveals Custom-Built Luxury Inside its Purposely Modest Facade

Allie Beth Allman agent Susan Baldwin had a marketing dilemma on her hands — which image of her listing at 4237 Middleton would best present the home. 

Some Realtors might not select an aerial image as a listing’s lead photo because it doesn’t give a feel for the home’s aesthetic. But if you show just the front elevation of this Preston Hollow home, you’re only getting half the story. That’s why we’re calling this stunning new home a hidden retreat or an undercover estate.

“Middleton was designed to not be too showy on the outside,” Baldwin said. “It’s like a jewel-box home where you have to get inside to see its treasures.”

The façade, smaller in scale but intentional in appearance, disguises its size and age elegantly while giving off the illusion that it has been in the neighborhood all along.

Cathy Koonsman, the visionary behind this home, describes it as a spec home built with the precision of a custom residence. It marks the first speculative venture for Koonsman & Co., known for their custom builds, remodels, and additions, so she wanted it to be distinctive, reflecting the neighborhood’s organic evolution. To achieve this, antique brick from a Fort Worth warehouse was chosen, adding a touch of historical texture to the exterior.

The residence occupies a pie-shaped lot with a generous front yard, concealing a larger-than-expected backyard – perfect for a future pool. The architecture embraces a Modern English style, emphasizing the importance of maximizing natural light throughout the home.

Privacy is paramount in the design here, with the front elevation featuring a front door discreetly tucked behind a gate. Surrounded by trees and a mix of new construction and remodeled ranch-style homes, Middleton effortlessly integrates into its surroundings.

The interior is a gorgeous symphony of high-end finishes and thoughtful design. The fireplace is flanked by sliders that retract seamlessly into the wall, offering a complete indoor-outdoor experience. Motorized screens enhance the connection to the outdoors.

The kitchen is a showcase of elegance, featuring a Ruvati workstation sink and high-end dolomite marble with a bookmatched marble backsplash.

The front living area boasts a Davinci quartzite bar, adding a touch of sophistication to the space. I’m picturing the perfect place for wine and tea.

Upstairs, each bathroom, including the half baths, is a unique masterpiece with special marble and tile selections. The primary bath surprises with a coffee bar, and a second laundry hookup is conveniently tucked into the primary closet.

Actually, Koonsman’s original worry that they might have done “too much” speaks to the level of luxury and detail invested in this home. It’s a real jewel box, inviting those who step inside to discover its hidden treasures.

Beyond its aesthetic charm, this residence is practical too. The .367-acre lot hosts a pier and beam foundation with a ventilated crawl space, full foam encapsulation, and a class 4 impact-resistant roof – elements you’d typically find in a builder’s own home.

It’s clear 4237 Middleton isn’t like any ordinary spec home — or any other home in Preston Hollow with its thoughtful disguise. It’s a completely custom home without the two years to build.

Susan Baldwin of Allie Beth Allman and Associates has listed 4237 Middleton Rd. for $3.849 million.