This Devonshire Oasis Puts the ‘Fun’ in Functional Luxury

The Devonshire neighborhood is known for its large lots and quiet, tree-lined streets, offering a sense of privacy and space that’s rare so close to the heart of Dallas. It’s the kind of place where neighbors wave, dogs happily patrol their turf, and traffic jams are likely caused by two squirrels playing tag in the street. This special slice of nice — bound by Northwest Highway, Inwood Road, Lovers Lane and the Dallas North Tollway — is the setting of this story’s featured home, 5712 Berkshire Lane.

“Devonshire is filled with a nice mix of ages,” says listing agent Wendy Harkness, “and a wide variety of architectural styles, from massive moderns accessed by a bridge over a creek, to cozy cottages that have been here from the get-go. The house is only a mile from Inwood Village, which has plenty of shops and places to eat, like Eatzi’s and Mesero. And it’s even closer to Preston Center. With its proximity to daily conveniences as well as the Tollway and downtown, I’d call this a pretty sweet spot to be in.”

Now typically we’d start with the front of the house (like above) and take you through it. But we’re too excited. So like skipping ahead to the last chapter to see how a book turns out or starting your dinner with dessert, we’re just going to jump straight to the backyard (shown below). It is officially summer, after all.

Obviously from the photos, this isn’t any ol’ backyard — it’s THE backyard. Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool, sipping a cold drink from your cabana refrigerator, while your friends and neighbors marvel at your outdoor cooking skills. Yes, grilled hot dogs count — it’s your imagination after all. When the sun sets, move over to the outdoor fireplace (in this heat, better make that a YouTube video of a crackling fire on the TV) and watch as it casts a glow on your perfectly manicured, envy-inducing lawn … You’re probably mentally putting together a guest list for an epic housewarming party right about now, aren’t you? Can’t say we blame you!

Says the current owner, “We have greatly enjoyed the natural privacy we’ve created here, especially in the backyard. There are no views of neighboring homes or external views into it. And in fact, we don’t have window coverings in the first-floor common spaces that look onto the backyard. That allows for plenty of natural light inside, though it’s somewhat diffused by the mature, healthy live oaks we’ve had serviced annually.”

For some of you, that may be all you need to know. But just in case, we’ll move on to the house. You know, the place where you’ll sleep and enjoy AC when you’re not outside.

“The moment you open the front door, your sightline is to the gorgeous views in back,” says Wendy. “But then you’re quickly distracted by the reimagined interior from renowned designer Cathy Koonsman. This 1940 home has effectively been rebuilt over the last 14-or-so years and further enhanced with her distinctive touch. It is gorgeous!” 

There are three living areas and an office, which is another favorite space of the owner, perfect for reflection and quiet time. 

The kitchen here is a chef’s playground. It features a built-in refrigerator, dual ovens, and a gas range, plus enough storage to make Marie Kondo swoon. Don’t you worry about where to put that extra bag of quinoa ever again.

Each bedroom is a mini retreat with its own en-suite bath, making morning routines as smooth as a freshly ironed shirt. The primary suite’s custom closet is so organized, it might just inspire you to finally ditch those 90s cargo pants. 

With a three-car garage, parking pad and gated motor court parking, there’s plenty of room for your car, your spouse’s car, your teen’s car and that midlife crisis convertible you’ve been eyeing.

Other less sexy but totally noteworthy highlights include: whole-house water filtration, updated Sonos sound system (including cabana), replaced pool filter/pump/lighting, street/outdoor cameras, monitored security system and much, much more.  

Centrally located in Dallas, 5712 Berkshire Lane is priced at $3.65 million and represents the best of both worlds: peaceful retreat meets urban energy. So what are you waiting for? Contact Wendy today at 214-213-4583 or [email protected].