2020 AIA Home Tour Featured This Modern Prairie by Architect Douglas Guiling
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Since its construction in 2018, this striking Preston Hollow Modern Prairie luxury home has captivated us. Back then, it was only the second residential project completed by award-winning architect Douglas Guiling. Known for a portfolio spanning civic, hospitality, multifamily, and office design, Guiling brings a distinct commercial sensibility to residential architecture. AIA Dallas selected this Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Modern Prairie for their 2020 Tour of Homes — another clear mark of professional recognition for Guiling.
He began with an exceptional half-acre lot bordering a sharp 90-degree bend in Bachman Creek. The unique landscape sparked his creativity. In 2021, he told The Advocate, “If you can design a space so that part of nature can be encountered in the space, it’s a successful space.”
Here, success is apparent. Guiling used the golden ratio, a principle architects apply to achieve balanced, harmonious proportions. Leading architects embrace it, and it’s what instantly makes you feel comfortable and at home.
He began with an entry that creates an air of mystery. So many current homes open directly into an enormous space with views directly to the exterior. It can be visually overwhelming. Guiling wanted to create a sense of arrival with a small and private space. Then, when you turn the corner, the drama unfolds.
A dramatic 21-foot-tall Mondrian-inspired window wall provides striking views of the natural surroundings for a proverbial jaw-dropping moment. Guiling designed the window to offer an overview as well as frame smaller views.
Throughout the 7,265-square-foot home, five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and three powder baths offer ample space for entertaining, showcasing art, and ensuring privacy.
It was also important to Guiling to design several outdoor living areas: a perfectly shaded pool for Texas summers, a cabana with a full bath, a fire pit, and an outdoor living and kitchen area.
There is also the added advantage that this Modern Prairie is situated on one of the most coveted streets in Dallas, Strait Lane, in the heart of Preston Hollow.
