3808 Turtle Creek Dr., Dallas, TX 75219

Magnificent Anton Korn-Designed Estate Overlooking Turtle Creek

Placed graciously along the banks of Turtle Creek and in a neighborhood known for its exquisite topography of rolling hills and picturesque streets, it could easily be said that there is no other place in Dallas like this one. A lyrical connection between architecture and location amply describe this superb and stately Tudor Revival residence located at 3808 Turtle Creek Drive.

Built in 1925 and designed by famed Dallas architect Anton F. Korn, Jr., this residence is an exquisite illustration for one of the most popular architectural styles of larger homes, the Tudor. Mr. Korn, who was born in New York, received his degree in architecture from Cornell University before establishing his office in Dallas in 1917 by way of Galveston. He had built numerous homes in the Park Cities and surrounding area including his own home on Beverly Drive before designing this now historic residence.

Mr. Korn, no doubt, was very aware that the Tudor style had returned to favor at the turn of the 20th century for members of high society and most likely used his knowledge and expertise to design the ultimate example of this period. Classic features of a Tudor home are immediately recognizable by half-timber embellishments; stone, stucco, or brick walls; giant, interesting chimneys; steep roofs and intersecting gables; tall, narrow, mullioned windows; and sheltered entrances.

The 4-bedroom, 3-full / 2-half bath home designed by Korn was built to impress over 86 years ago and today offers many urban conveniences while retaining its elegance and privacy. The meticulously restored and updated home rests on a tree-filled, half-acre corner lot with a surrounding privacy wall, gated entrance and creek side view. The stonework is immaculate, and the half-timbers are understated. The slate roof rises boldly while oriel stained glass windows dot the exterior. The outdoor terraces include brick walkways and a brick motor court that is outlined with a stone balustrade surround.

The interior of Korn’s masterful design offers a fascinating floor plan of large airy rooms redolent of the 18th century. Stepping back in time, a large foyer flanked by gracious formals has a diamond patterned marble floor that leads to an intricate iron stairway. Below the stairway are a powder room and double doors that lead to the creek side terrace. To the right of the entry, a spectacular drawing room offers an outstanding boxed beamed ceiling, original mantel with marble inlay and numerous built-in bookcases. It should also be noted that at rear of the room the ceiling has been recessed to view an iron and cable suspension ceiling which highlights the massive two-level bay window with stained glass insets.

Across from the drawing room are the formal living and dining rooms. Numerous windows illuminate the hand scraped hardwood floors throughout this area. A fireplace with marble surround appears to be the focal point of the living area while a triple arch doorway leads into the formal dining. Adjoining the dining area is the glass conservatory. Designed in a classic octagon shape, the conservatory has a full glass ceiling, imported limestone flooring, built-in wine cooler with side drawer refrigerator and also features a 180 degree view of the pool and terrace area.

The kitchen of the home melds old world charm with the sophistication of new technology. A center island with marble top conceals essentials such as a dishwasher and microwave but also includes a vegetable sink and side board with wood chopping block. The walled backsplash offers stacked stone and the top-of-the-line stainless appliances include a Viking 6-burner gas stove with double ovens below. Adjacent to the kitchen is a lovely morning room with dazzling glass windows and built-ins. A butler’s pantry leads into the formal dining and offers carefully thought of amenities such as a second dishwasher and warmer drawer both ideal for entertainment. A half-bath is also located in this area and is across from the impressive bar and storage area.

A second stairway behind the formal dining room leads to three finely detailed bedrooms. The spacious guest room offers an updated a private bath while the two additional bedroom suites share a large updated bath with tub. The upstairs laundry has been placed at the end of the hall.

The oversized and meticulously updated master suite is likely the most interesting and unique experience in the home. The two-level “A” framed ceiling features an iron and cable suspension ceiling as seen below in the drawing room. While extensive lighting focuses the eyes attention above, there are many other important accoutrements in this room, starting with the beautiful marble fireplace which is outlined by double French doors. There are also two individual deck areas off of the master, each placed on opposite sides of the room. The master bath offers a separate glass enclosed shower and soaking tub which have both been placed in the center for maximum impact. Above the tub is a beautiful antique chandelier. Separate vanity areas have been created on opposing ends of the bath to take full advantage of the space. Side-by-side closets line the room and lead to a larger walk-in closet at the back of the bath. All of the closets contain built-in and the larger walk-in offers a full length mirror. Additionally, there is access to the upstairs laundry room from the master closet.

Fundamental elements rooted in the design of this residence have been refocused and improved to include the many amenities and upgrades. Extensive Lutron lighting systems including art and recessed lights have been placed in abundance throughout. Many original items remain in this outstanding residence while thought provoking new ones have been carefully selected. Extensive new hand-scraped hardwood flooring compliments many of the rooms and have been selected solely to accentuate the residents experience. Other items including wiring updates, security and sound systems have been added to add value to the superior craftsmanship and to provide for the privacy and comfort of the homeowner.

This remarkable and historic estate has been furnished by the incomparable Anne Schooler. Ms. Schooler, one of Dallas’ highly sought after interior designers, has an outstanding reputation of creating luxurious environments by making them comfortable and inviting. Each placement and response has been carefully considered by her design team and the homeowner to produce the overall affect seen in this majestic residence.

There is no other home which offers such superior aspects as location, style and level of sophistication in the marketplace today as 3808 Turtle Creek Drive. While created in a style thought of as “old world” it is most likely that the inhabitants of early centuries would recognize all that this stately manor offers today.