A Reimagined West Highland Park French Modern You (and Your Pup) Will Love
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Reimagination is essential when it comes to our homes. The solution is never to raze, but to reimagine. I cannot think of a better example than this West Highland Park French Modern.
While many of us may not possess a natural talent for reimagination, we are fortunate to have visionary designers in Dallas, such as Brant McFarlain. McFarlain elevated the interior of this 5,169-square-foot French Modern home on a double lot to the standard it merits.
For example, transoms were added above the doors, and plaster banding replaced crown molding while wainscotting enhanced the walls. Even the ceiling design in the dining room was new. As McFarlain explained, “We added back character and tried to put a little historic feel into the house.”
A significant enhancement is the lighting design by Shane Douglas. Lighting is often overlooked during remodeling, yet it is a crucial element capable of transforming and defining a space and setting the mood for each room.
Due to the home’s location on a double lot, McFarlain incorporated steel windows and doors into the family room. Now, expansive divided light windows face outward, connecting the interior with the lawn and the second lot.
Among all the changes, one of the most significant was rotating the kitchen. It was previously facing North-South and was altered to face East-West. This created a breakfast area within the kitchen and better connected the space to the family room and the second lot. McFarlain also added a covered patio to that side with ceiling fans and a reimagined fireplace. This strengthened the link between the home and the 22-foot screened pavilion, which includes a kitchenette and bathroom.
Connecting the kitchen and library is a pass-through, which McFarlain expanded to serve as a wine bar with a mirrored backsplash. Continuing the theme of attention to detail, the kitchen pantry now features steel and glass doors, providing a clear view inside, along with a soapstone countertop and a black and white checkerboard floor. As McFarlain noted, “We tried to do something pretty everywhere you look.”
Additional fireplaces were installed in the primary suite and library. Two windows that previously faced a neighbor’s house were replaced with bookshelves.
It’s clear that the architecture and lighting are not the only focal points in this West Highland Park French Modern. The details also command attention. These include the brass light switches, hinges, knobs, fixtures, and a distinctive niche beside the front door. As Mike Hopwood, team manager and sales agent for Compass Realtor Becky Frey, explains, “The details are subtle and intimate. Every element appears thoughtfully considered, and each room features a unique touch.”
