This Architect-Owned Home in State Thomas Feels Like Another Time and Place

How can one home capture the best of living in the heart of modern life in Dallas, and yet feel like another place and time entirely? That’s The Art House in Uptown’s State Thomas neighborhood, the subject of this week’s Highlight Home of the Week, sponsored by Lisa Peters, Senior Loan Officer with First Horizon.

The home was the personal residence of Dallas architect Jack C. Irwin, whose distinctive architectural style influenced both residential and commercial developments throughout Dallas, particularly in the State Thomas, Uptown, and Northern Hills neighborhoods of Oak Lawn. Irwin, who passed away in 2024, was also passionate about the development and preservation of the Oak Lawn area, one of his proudest achievements being the creation of Griggs Park, which is a block away from his former home.

The home is a beautifully executed California mission-style stucco and Spanish tile design located in the heart of State Thomas, in easy walking distance to multiple restaurants, including a fantastic tapas and sangria spot just steps away. Living in an architect’s home, you can always expect attention to detail, the very best materials, and wonderful design surprises throughout the home, and The Art House is no exception.

For example, in the first image, you see the Mystical Medusa wall fountain that greets you in the open air hallway to the guest quarters. The second image is the magnificent 1920’s stained glass window that graces the archway in the stairs to the main living area.

But let’s back up. When you enter the home, the first floor contains the guest suite complete with its own kitchen, and a four-stop elevator (hooray for elevators!). The stairs lead to the second floor which includes the primary suite and a second bedroom.

The second-floor primary suite is a private escape with its own outdoor lanai and a spa-style bathroom equipped with dual sinks, a spa tub, separate shower, and two walk-in closets. The bathroom has a notable work of glass art above the bath by artist Melissa Haid. The second bedroom also works well as an office with beautiful built-in cabinetry.

The third floor (don’t panic — remember that elevator!) has all the main living areas and is built for entertaining. Beautifully lit with iconic downtown views, the living area is both cozy and elegant, partially open to the gourmet kitchen. Step out to another stunning lanai for outdoor dining and enjoyment.

Treetop and downtown views bring natural light into the fully equipped kitchen, where a deep red glass backsplash adds warmth and contrast. Sleek, light wood cabinetry with stainless steel appliances makes a simple yet stylish statement. A butler’s pantry just off the kitchen provides extra storage and effortless entertaining.

One more floor up — and only accessible by the elevator or a ladder — is this bonus room. Currently in use as a workout studio, this space could be used for a fun playroom for kids, a music studio, craft room, or you name it!

Finally, the luxury pool and spa, recently added, put the finishing touches on this home that provides an escape from the everyday while still putting you right in the middle of everything Dallas with its incredible views and easy, walkable access to Uptown, downtown, and more.

This exciting home in the heart of State Thomas will be held open this Sunday, May 17, from 2-4 p.m.

David Griffin and Company Realtor Lori Ericsson has 2023 Allen Street listed for $2.325 million.