Hollywood Santa Monica’s 32nd Home Tour Opens Doors to Six Tudor Cottages
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Realtor Anne Tudhope knows a good neighborhood when she sees it.
One of her favorites is the historic East Dallas neighborhood of Hollywood Santa Monica, where the tree-lined streets are known for their 1920s and 1930s Tudor cottages, Craftsman bungalows, and midcentury traditional homes. It’s her job to know the city’s best residential areas, but there’s a reason she’s an expert on the place. She has lived there since 1995.
“It’s the first house I bought, and I never thought I’d still be living in it, but I love the neighborhood,” she said. “I can’t find another one like it.”
Tour May 1 and 2
In fact, she and her neighbors like it so very much that they want everyone to see it. So the Hollywood Santa Monica Neighborhood Association is holding its 32nd Annual Hollywood Home Tour May 1 and 2, open to the public. The tradition highlights the architecture and charm of this well-preserved enclave, with six Tudor-style houses showcased this year.
The public home tour will roll out welcome mats in two distinct formats during the two‑day event, according to Tudhope, the neighborhood’s home tour chair and the homeowners association’s president. The Wine Walk and Home Tour, presented by Times Ten Cellars, is planned from 4 to 9 p.m. May 1. Wine, light bites, and plenty of music, a new addition last year to the decades-old tour, will set the tone for those wanting to enjoy the blend of architecture, beverages, food, and some tunes.
“The vibe was very chic,” Tudhope said.
Music and More
This year, the entertainment will begin with musicians from Woodrow Wilson High School’s band, then end with an eclectic mix of music. Each house will feature a different style of “music to tour a historic home” for the public to enjoy while viewing the houses.
Then, on May 2, the public will be able to tour the six houses at a relaxed pace from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Even though all six houses are Tudor style with their characteristic steeply pitched roofs and storybook charm, each is unique, Tudhope said. Through nominations and committee selections, the six homes present distinctive elements, whether it’s artwork, landscapes, or decor.
“We look at not just what the style of the home is, but also unique features,” the Realtor said. “We have had a lot of internal renovations that I think are very interesting.”
Special Community
Founded in 1924, the Hollywood Santa Monica Neighborhood is a lively East Dallas enclave of nearly 700 homes, including the featured Tudor cottages on the tour. In addition to the structures that have stood the test of 100 years, it’s the sense of community that Tudhope thinks really makes the neighborhood special.
Besides the annual home tour, the neighborhood is known for its many holiday events that bring a fun, friendly vibe. An Easter parade is an annual tradition, but add to that fun some gatherings, both planned and spontaneous, for Halloween, chili cookoffs, line dancing, and more.
“It almost harkens back to Mayberry RFD,” said Tudhope, referring to the homespun TV show that debuted in 1968. “Everyone knows their neighbor, and everyone knows everyone’s dog’s name.”
If You Go
Proceeds from the Hollywood Home Tour will support preservation efforts and benefit Dallas ISD elementary schools in the Woodrow Wilson High School feeder pattern.
What: 32nd Annual Hollywood Home Tour
When: May 1-2
Cost: $30 for Saturday home tour, $40 for the Wine Walk and home tour
Tickets: Purchase online at HSMNA.org/Home-Tour
