While it might seem like North Texas has become a bit of a ghost town with lots of schools over spring break, it’s always buzzing with upcoming fundraising news. The latest to arrive is the Preservation Park Cities 2022 Historic Homes Tour in May.

2022 home visiting chair Amy Beale with the Presidents of Preservation Park Cities Tish Kay (2012-2022) and Burton Rhodes (2022-2023) just announced a slew of activities as part of this year’s virtual tour of four exhibition venues in the Park Cities.

There are three opportunities to support the Preservation Park Cities mission, including:

The Patron Premier at the Inwood Theater on Monday, May 2 — Beginning at 7 p.m., the event will include a cocktail reception followed by a preview of the theater’s big-screen tour. Individual tickets are $100 with sponsorships ranging from $250 per couple to $5,000. Tickets will also include access to the virtual tour.

Historic Home Tour Underwriters Party Wednesday, May 4 – Held at a newly renovated historic Highland Park estate from 6-8 p.m., sponsorships start at $750 per couple up to $5,000 with limited availability.

Preservation Park Cities Historic Homes Virtual Tour Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8 — The virtual tour of all four residences will be accessible from the comfort of the ticket holder’s home. Tickets are $25 with sponsorships available here.

Now for homes on some of the Park Cities’ most beautiful avenues. In addition to each being sponsored, here is a brief description by Joan Clark to give an idea of ​​what’s inside and the story behind them.

• 3722 Avenue Gillon belonging to Lisa and John Rocchio and sponsored by The Rhodes Group — Completed in 1916, this neo-classical style residence is a magnificent tribute to the talent of the eminent architect Hal Thomson. Originally built for Dallas Lawyer Samuel Leak, the house is a hybrid design that features a symmetrical facade with understated Italian Renaissance detailing. Unique partially fluted Ionic columns form three bays at the entrance to the one-story porch. Three Palladian windows with fluted columns above the porch reinforce this element. A rich entablature along with medallions and corner chains add to the elegant exterior. Only the fourth family to own this historic home, John and Lisa Rocchio made a conscious decision at the start of this project to preserve and protect the character of the architecture. January Showers directed the interior design details, and Ralph Duesing helped with the architectural renovation. The Rocchio family, to their credit, understood the importance of the architecture represented in this incomparable residence. As owners, they inherited a treasure trove of heirloom documents, including deeds and photographs that all provide interesting historical context. With care, attention to detail and sensibility, they have blended luxury and spaciousness in their refreshing contemporary update of an iconic Highland Park home.

• 3711 Arcady Avenue owned by Courtney and Charlie Small and sponsored by Methodist Hospital Dallas — Architect George Marble designed the French Chateauesque home at 4311 Arcady, and this project clearly exemplifies his preferred style. It forces the imagination to realize that this was a house built for Dines and Kraft in 1937. From the hipped roof pavilions to the octagonal turret, the architectural detail of the roof design is a marvel in itself. . Brick detailing under the eaves and Juliet’s solid wood balconies with checkered railing reflect the influence of the iconic architect Charles Dilbeck, who was once Marble’s partner. A mix of Gothic and Roman arch treatments at windows and doorways create a romantic visual feast. The many architectural and interior design features of this home are simply indescribable. What a study in scale, proportion and charm 4311 Arcady represents. Personal, personalized touches can transform historic homes in the most remarkable way. This story has a happy ending thanks to the wise choices, passion and appreciation of the caretakers who loved living in this unique home designed and created by a talented architect and renowned builder.

• 4305, avenue Lorraine belonging to Laurie and John Harper and sponsored by Cynthia Beard/Christine McKenney, Allie Beth Allman and Associates — Arguably one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture in Dallas, 4305 Lorraine was built in 1929 by legendary architects Fooshee and Cheek. Left in its original state, the entire facade of the house is a panorama of layered and intricate masonry and stone craftsmanship. Clad primarily in Oklahoma fieldstone and SMU brick, the triple basket weave, herringbone, and running bond brick patterns command attention. Pair these design elements with half-timbering, a unique plaster and stone fireplace, and intricate corbel detailing and the result is this majestic masterpiece. A gable facing the main facade accentuates the Gothic arch stone enclosure surrounding the original carved English oak and leaded glass front door. What a rarity to find a home meticulously designed for a 360 degree perspective. The Harpers considered enclosing the magnificent porch at the east end of the house, but realized this would compromise the unusual pillow-topped stone columns and Gothic arches. Their restraint and passion for preservation is reflected in this important historic residence.

• 3717 Maplewood Avenue owned by Alexandra and Ford Halbardier and sponsored by Avon Cleaners — Nestled behind a wall of greenery, a winding path leads to a modern and timeless architectural gem. Built in 1964 by commercial specialists Pratt Fox and Henderson construction company, this home is a study in contemporary detail and craftsmanship. Current owner Alex Halbardier fell in love the moment she saw the eleven-foot front door with glass panels lit by Octavio Medellin. The interior walls are of brick and Honduran mahogany. Small bronze studs in the wooden walls paired with masonry detailing on the door frames are testament to the handcrafted elements found throughout this home. Original stained brick floors complete the interior. The previous owners, the Hochstim family, have generously disposed of the original mahogany sideboard and dining table designed for this space. This story would be incomplete without mentioning the warm relationship that developed between the Hochstim and Halbardier families. Period photos of the house confirm the Halbardier family’s true stewards in executing their vision and respecting the past. An impressive architecture award from 1968 is still prominently displayed in the entrance area. Transferring this architectural gem to a family who cherishes it is a wonderful expression of historic preservation not only for both families, but also something the whole community can celebrate.

Funds raised through Home Tour “will be used to help preserve and maintain the Park Cities House at Dallas Heritage Village, support the new PPC Archives at the University Park Library, fund PPC landmark initiatives, award scholarships for senior graduates of Highland Park High School who plan to study architecture or history and fund the Distinguished Chair for History at Highland Park High School.

* Photo credit: Danny Piassick