The Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy Presents a Fall Garden Party
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I have to hand it to the board of the Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy. They were founded in 2022 to celebrate Charles Stevens Dilbeck’s architectural legacy and educate the public about his work. In only two years, they have become the go-to resource for all things Dilbeck, even listing Dilbeck-designed homes for sale. Their events are not to be missed, and one of the most exciting, The Fall Garden Party, is coming up next week.
“Part of our mission involves hosting parties and events in Dilbeck-designed spaces,” board chair Nancy McCoy said. “Our first event was held in the well-known Dealey Residence in Westlake, followed by Red Bryan’s Smokehouse restaurant in Oak Cliff, the “Four Sisters” Home Tour in the Park Cities, and the upcoming Fall Garden Party, which will be held in one of the most memorable Dilbecks in Dallas.”

If you are new to Dallas, you may ask why Dilbeck? Charles Stevens Dilbeck designed between 225 and 300 homes between 1932 and 1989, with the vast majority in Dallas in the widest array of styles you can imagine and in just about every neighborhood. You can find small cottages in Cochran Heights and Oak Cliff and large estates in Preston Hollow and Lakewood. He’s known for masterfully blending styles and adding enchanting, whimsical details.
The Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy Fall Garden Party will be held in a 1938 French Norman Dilbeck in Preston Hollow. Originally built for Mary and Marshall S. Cloyd, and now owned by Jim and Lisa Willson, it has the charm and whimsy you expect from Dilbeck, including a turret and Juliette balconies. Of course, there are English Tudor details as well, like the half-timbering and diamond-shaped leaded-glass windows, because Dilbeck was a master at combining influences and making them work beautifully with his signature details. Dilbeck homes are easy to fall in love with because the fanciful architecture allows us to take a step back into history.

Of course, the house was selected not only for its architectural integrity but also for its magnificent backyard. Remember, this is a proper garden party! The focal point is the reflecting pool set in the original landscape plan.
“Like Dilbeck-designed homes, this party will be fun, charming, and a bit whimsical,” McCoy said.
As if the Fall Garden Party is not enough, each guest will be given one free raffle ticket for a chance to stay at the scenic and historic Rest Yourself River Ranch in Mineral Wells, which was designed in collaboration with Charles Stevens Dilbeck.
The Fall Garden Tour of The Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy is supported by sponsors Jim and Linda Willson, Rest Yourself River Ranch, RP Valet, and Atwell Design.
Because the Fall Garden Party is in a private home and garden the tickets are limited. They can be purchased at The Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy on the Events page.
Dilbeck Fall Garden Party: Thursday, October 10, 5-8 p.m