How many times have we heard that people want one-level luxury living and can’t find it? Well, this Northaven Estates contemporary is the answer. It’s the only one I’ve seen in years, and that’s because even when builders can find almost an acre of land, they don’t feel like it will return on investment without building two stories. That makes one level of living even more sought after.
It’s telling that renowned builder John Huffman intentionally constructed a one-level home to be his own in 2018. It was forward-thinking because you can realistically live in a one-story home much longer than one with two levels. It’s also easier to spot the kids and hear them when you are raising a young family! And if you read my column often, you will remember what I always say about buying a house a builder created for his family—you simply won’t find a better-built home.
If you are not familiar with Huffman’s JH Design + Build, he also took renowned architect Hardy McCullah’s modernist home to a new level for NBA superstar Luka Dončić in 2020.
With a slab foundation, stucco, brick, and stone exterior, and a standing seam metal roof, the 6,928-square-foot home was built to last for generations. The current owner was already living in the neighborhood when Huffman finished the house, and she eventually talked him into selling it to her!
“This is not your average home,” the homeowner said. “There’s something incredibly inviting about it — a sense of peace and warmth that you feel the moment you walk through the door. It truly is a feel-good home, and one I’ve been so proud to live in.”
This Northaven Estates contemporary is laid out in an open-plan concept with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors across the back of the house, all overlooking the pool and the covered outdoor loggia.
“Some of our favorite memories have been made on the patio, which may be the best in North Dallas,” the owner said. “Whether we’re watching football or a movie, listening to music by the fire, or soaking in the hot tub, it’s a place that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. More than anything, it’s simply a beautiful home to live in.”
The low-maintenance backyard with a pool and spa is ideal for kids, dogs, and entertaining. There is even a separate fenced dog run, and yes, there is a dog-washing station because you know they will jump in the pool!
A few of the things I really covet here are the separate gym with mirrored walls and padded floors, and the whole-house generator. After that grid failure in 2021, generators are essential in Texas.
Newcomers may not be familiar with the Northaven Estates neighborhood. It’s a little under three miles north of Preston Hollow, and the location is exceptional. When you hear everyone say a home is in the private school corridor, then find it’s a million miles away, well, this one IS in the private school corridor. It’s a four-minute drive to Hockaday, five minutes to Jesuit, and six to The Episcopal School of Dallas…