A Shorecrest Contemporary Showplace Surrounded by Nature

Kelton and Sarah Todd took one look at this Shorecrest property and instantly saw the possibilities. Not only do they have vision, they also have the talent and resources to make their vision a reality. 

Kelton is an entrepreneur who has been a real estate investor for years. He and his brother got their mom involved in investing and founded WREIN.com, now a well-known national women’s real estate investing network. Sarah is an artist and designer. Theirs is truly the perfect match of personality and talent.

“We love working together,” Kelton said. “When we were dating we bought a house in East Dallas, tore out the inside, redid it, and we’ve never stopped. As the old saying goes, if you can survive building a house together, you can survive anything. We have passed that test numerous times.”

Shorecrest Property

When they spotted this property on Shorecrest, a picturesque street known for its rolling hills, creeks, and a heavy canopy of mature trees, it was a 1,950-square-foot ranch house with some cottage embellishments. Built in 1950, it was not in bad shape but nothing to write home about. What captured the Todds’ attention was the topography. They knew they could build a home in the natural surroundings and, frankly, even improve them.

Taking inspiration from years spent with family in Colorado, they created a moody, eclectic, yet sophisticated vibe that is a definite departure from what we see in most new builds in Dallas. With a focus on a seamless merging of the home into nature, the couple created a climate-controlled conservatory living space with 36 feet of pocketing frameless glass surrounding the living and dining space and opening to the majestic tiered bluff. The Todds enhanced the area with four cascading water features providing over 100 feet of moving waterfalls and streams. Yes, you can improve upon Mother Nature!

Midcentury Modern

There is a considerable nod to Midcentury Modern architecture in this Shorecrest contemporary. The clever use of pavers on the most prominent part of the facade continues into the entry, just as you would have seen in a 1950s Midcentury Modern. The reason for pavers is that real stone stains easily and watermarks. Pavers are resistant. The same pavers were used in the office which showcases an inspiring and dramatic mix of textures and materials.

Those materials were all chosen to enhance the focal point of the natural surroundings. Nothing offsets the brilliant green of the landscape like black, so the white oak kitchen cabinetry was treated to a True Black stain. The Allure Quartzite waterfall island offers the perfect counterpoint to the dark cabinetry.

The Most Important Area in The House

We all know the most important area in the house, in addition to the kitchen, is the principal suite. This one was designed with some creative touches we seldom see. In another nod to Midcentury Modern architecture, built-in cabinetry runs the length of the window wall with a coffee station. The juxtaposition of the wooden ceiling with the marble fireplace wall offers a cocoon-like feeling, which is just what we want in a private sanctuary. 

Two of the WOW factors in this Shorecrest showplace are the principal closet and bathroom. The built-in cabinetry continues in the closet, as does the wall of windows. The bathroom also reflects that cozy cocoon feeling with a perfect mix of light and dark elements and possibly the most beautiful bathtub in Dallas. That’s a Terrazzo Stone freestanding bathtub by France & Son. 

Shorecrest is not a neighborhood people easily leave. However, the Todds’ growing family necessitates a move, so this is a rare opportunity to have a cutting-edge, tranquil home, enveloped by nature, a complete escape in the heart of Dallas.

At Properties, Marjan Wolford and Andrea Reynolds have 4280 Shorecrest Dr. available for $4.95 million.