New Leaf Custom Homes Unveils the ‘Listing of the Summer’ in Preston Hollow

Over the last 20 years, New Leaf Custom Homes has accumulated an impressive portfolio of covetable, high-quality homes. But Scott and Melissa Powell’s latest venture — a showstopping spec in the heart of Preston Hollow — reaches a new pinnacle.

“It’s the listing of the summer,” said Rylan Clark, director of business development. “There’s nothing else like it on the market. For us, 6802 Forest Lane is an opportunity to say, ‘Hey Dallas, look what we can do.’” Asking price: $5.895 million.

Melissa dubs the look organic modern — an aesthetic that blends contemporary design elements with natural materials and textures. In-house designer Samantha Bailey likens it to a European villa, timeless with a touch of old world.

The bottom line: this house oozes style.

“I got to flex every creative muscle. With a spec, you’re able to really push the limits,” she said.

Talk about drive-up appeal. Forget any preconceived notions about living on a highly trafficked street. The minute you make the turn into the private gated entrance, you’re instantly transported into a serene, paradise-like setting.

The home’s impressive façade — think natural limestone stucco, Douglas fir — is set back on the three-quarter of an acre lot. The main entrance sits off to the side, distancing it from the street. Yet the real magic begins as soon as you cross the threshold.

A floor-to-ceiling windowed foyer offers views of the pool and spa, waterfall feature, and lushly-manicured backyard — striking on its own, but just a sneak peek of what’s to come. It also separates the home’s all-inclusive guest wing from the main living areas.

The floorplan is a standout, according to Rylan. The main level, which comprises about two-thirds of the home’s 6,300 square feet, creates a unique one-story feel. A multitude of strategically placed windows illuminate the house from every side.

Exceptional features abound.“I don’t know many houses in Dallas that have a 15-foot by 15-foot courtyard situated right in the center,” he said.

Spacious living areas are warm and inviting.

“There’s a ton of style around every corner,” said Samantha. “We put pendants down the corridors, doorways are wrapped in white oak, ceilings are wood clad, and the graphic Italian marble countertops are to die for.”

Custom trim, textures, and patterns are all-important extras. “The same way you can achieve layering with furniture, textiles, and accessories, we achieve that with tile patterns, textural stone, and varieties in our wood species and stain colors.”

The primary suite is meticulously designed to create a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. In addition to a limestone fireplace (which matches the one in the living room), there’s an adjacent lounge area and office, hotel-quality bath with two-toned marble shower, his-and-her walk-in closets, coffee bar, and private patio. A family-oriented second level sports a large game room and three spacious bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bath.

Last, but far from least, is the home’s sumptuous, impeccably designed backyard oasis. The stunning pool and waterfall feature are the handiwork of New Leaf subsidiary, Pools by Design. Ideal for entertaining, the patio features a full kitchen, fireplace, and built-in electronic screens. Tile and stone bring elements of the indoors, out.

“We know what moves the needle with buyers,” said Rylan. “This amount of space, along with the trees and the creek that are highlights of the lot, allowed us to do something very different and special.”

Open houses for 6802 Forest Lane are scheduled for this weekend: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m. Or call, Rylan Clark, (512) 924-3104.