To say that this house, located in University Park’s “Culture Gulch,” and designed by Richard Drummond Davis, has a storied past is an understatement. In fact, the name “Culture Gulch” was coined by Texas author Frank Dobie, who is known as “the storyteller of the Southwest.”
If you have never heard of “Culture Gulch,” it’s no surprise, even though you have probably driven by it hundreds of times–literally. Tucked away just off Lovers Lane near University Park Elementary School, Culture Gulch is a private pond that got its name from Dobie, who in the 1950s often visited his artsy, academic friends who lived in the houses surrounding the pond–friends, like Jerry Bywaters, director of the Dallas Museum of Fine Arts and the Meadows School of the Arts, SMU art professor Ed Bearden, SMU history professor Lon Tinkle, and Dr. John Chapman. These erudite friends lived in modest, but architecturally significant, mid-century modern houses designed by their architect friends, O’Neil Ford, Arch Swank, and Todd Dale. Yes, Dobie was right; there was a lot of culture going on here.
In 1986 when Richard Davis was asked to design a house in Culture Gulch, he was delighted to join the list of noteworthy architects who have contributed to the architectural landscape of this important enclave.
Focusing on the natural beauty of the pond, the house is oriented toward the rear of the lot, with an impressive balcony dramatically cantilevered out over the water.
The living spaces inside and out are all designed to take maximum advantage of the unique and rare natural beauty of the site.
The outdoor living spaces are an oasis to entertain or quietly enjoy the surrounding trees, where it is not uncommon to spot a white heron nesting in the branches.
Expansive windows and french doors opening out to the balcony are important features of the transitional interiors. Muted, elegant design allows the view to the outdoors to take center stage.
The private spaces are equally tranquil. The primary bedroom opens out to the balcony over the pond, while the upstairs rooms open out onto a second-story balcony.
Even the deep, soaking tub in the primary suite has a view to the verdant landscape surrounding the Gulch.
Without a doubt, this balcony is one of the best in Dallas, no, make that Texas. Sit back, relax, and listen to the gentle splash of the fountain in the pond. Or maybe (for a little culture) read Frank Dobie’s masterpiece, Tales of Old-Time Texas. Or invite some artist friends over. It’s Culture Gulch after all; the legend lives on.
Special thanks to Christopher McGuire of Compass Real Estate for use of the photographs of 3616 Lovers Lane.