One of Arlington's Finest Contemporary Estates Falls Into Foreclosure - 2906 W. Shadow Drive

Shadow Drive is a highly respected neighborhood in far north Arlington.  Known for prominent residents and luxury real estate, one of the more regarded residents is Kristopher Kyle Lewis, a construction equipment mogul with a country-wide crane business based out of Grand Prairie, Texas.  Lewis Crane has aided the construction of skyscrapers, stadiums, and hotels across America.  But unfortunately, this economic downturn blindsided many, like Lewis.  His mega modern estate is now under foreclosure.  Lewis, who was once making over $5 million a year with his successful business, was blindsided by the recession which ultimately had a profound impact on him.  He is credited throughout the world as being one of the only survivors of a crane fall/crash.  His 9,470 sq. foot modern estate will soon be listed on the market.  Such a home won't sell very fast, a classic example is 2324 Panorama Court, also in Arlington.  Do I see an auction in the near future?

The estate, built in 2003, was appraised 3 years ago at just over $2.7 million - just last year, it was appraised at $1.7 million.  

Thanks for reading,

John

Photographer Brandon Barré

Today I'd like to introduce you to photographer Brandon Barré. Based in Toronto, Canada, he specializes in architectural interiors, still life, and portraits. His clients include
Elle Decor, Home Magazine, Canadian House and Home, Elle Décoration (Fr)among many others.

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These are just a few of his photographs. If you'd like to see many more just go to his portfolio right here.

Newly 2010 Built French Mansion Wins Notable Awards for Its Interior - 1268 Somerset Lane in McLendon Chisholm, Texas

In Rockwall county just east of Dallas sits the very small town of McLendon Chisholm, Texas.  Probably the nicest home within the city limits of this small country town is 1268 Somerset Lane, a French inspired mansion with definite turrets and articulate architecture.  The 7,925 sq. foot residence has even won some notable awards.  With the city of Rockwall's Best Kitchen and Best Family Room recognitions, the interior of this home blows away the competition.  Here's two pictures of the exterior:

Here's a few listing pictures displaying Rockwall's Best Kitchen and Best Family Room!

Here's The Listing

Thanks for reading,

John

Incredible Residence with Picturesque Views of Lake Texoma in Denison, Texas

Here is Denison, Texas' most expensive listing, 1388 Elmridge Road.  The 7,745 sq. foot main living home takes on a Colorado inspired design with the use of spruce and pine logs built into the construction.  Many Colorado homes, especially those within the mountains, are built with a common distinct triangular window pattern off the living room - what picturesque views of the lake right from the couch!  The interior is a mixture of designs, from stone to different types of woods.  More notable amenities include 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a billiards room, wooden porte cochere, elevator, incredible views of Lake Texoma, 2 car garage, balconies all along the exterior first floor, and much more.  As it says in the listing, "no expensive was spared."  This private and articulate residence is listed for $3,200,000.

Here's The Listing

Thanks for reading,

John

Dining Inspiration

So what does a new home mean.... lots of new inspiration. It's a chance to shake things up a little and try some new pieces of furniture or colours or anything you like.

I'm starting with my dining room. Yes, I actually have a seperate dedicated space for dining! I know, it seems normal to most people but this is a first for me! But at the same time I think this means I will have to cook! And have people over to eat it! Oh dear help them!! Actually I'm concerned if they like the space more than the food!!

So yesterday I headed to Ikea for some last minute purchases as there's no Ikea in Cairns :(

I bought this :

To go with these :

All because of these inspirational spaces :

I would like there to be a touch a glam with a bit of monochrome mod.

And for the pop of colour I'm going Kelly Green, maybe in a print or some cushions....

Thoughts??

images via 6th st design school, one hour

Wonderfully Crafted Home in Bartonville, Texas Inspired by George Washington's Estate, Mount Vernon

For the past 2 years, I've traveled to Washington, D.C. for a little site-seeing.  One of my favorites places near D.C. is Mount Vernon, the slightly renovated but still extremely historic estate of George Washington, the first president of the United States of America.  I highly recommend a visit to all who haven't been.

Anyway, I was mapping out Bartonville, Texas and found this home along Green Oak Drive in central Bartonville.  It's a homely street with homes build on 1+ acres.  I came across this stately residence and I knew immediately Mount Vernon was the role model for this home.  It's got very similar exterior construction as the current renovated Mount Vernon.  

Here's pictures of the Bartonville home:

And here's some Google images of Mount Vernon, the real one:

Thanks for reading,

John

Here's a New One - Anyone Interested in a Listed $3.3 Million Dollar Estate with a Brick Foyer?

Here's what I would call a genuinely odd home.  With the exceptions of some outdoor amenities, name the pool, this estate just won't do it for me.  Especially the foyer.  I took one look at this foyer and I had to ask myself, "Really?"  What do you think - brick foyer or no brick foyer?

Here's The Listing

Thanks for reading,

John