A Real Estate Agent's Perspective on the City's Best Architectural Event
Hey there, Dallas homeowners and future homeowners!
As real estate professionals who've been helping clients find their dream homes in Dallas for years, we've learned something important: the best buyers and sellers are informed buyers and sellers. And there's no better way to get informed about what's possible in residential architecture than attending the AIA Dallas Tour of Homes.
This year marks the 19th annual tour, happening October 25-26, and we're genuinely excited about this lineup. We've already blocked out time on our calendars to walk through these eight homes, and we wanted to share why we think you should too—whether you're thinking about buying, selling, renovating, or just dreaming about what could be.
Why Real Estate Professionals Actually Love This Tour
Here's the thing: we see a lot of homes. Like, a lot of homes. But the AIA Tour of Homes is different. These aren't just beautiful properties (though they absolutely are). These are homes that represent the cutting edge of what's happening in Dallas residential architecture right now. They're case studies in solving design challenges, incorporating new technologies, and creating spaces that genuinely improve how people live.
And from a real estate perspective? Understanding these trends helps us serve our clients better. When someone asks us, "What's possible with my lot?" or "How can I add value to my home?" we can point to real examples we've walked through ourselves.
This Year's Eight Homes: What Makes Each One Special
Let's talk about why each of these properties caught our attention. The tour spans some of Dallas's most sought-after neighborhoods, including Preston Hollow, Turtle Creek, and Oak Cliff:
Crestover Drive – When Traditional Meets Contemporary
This 5,980-square-foot home by Studio Park Architecture is a masterclass in "neotraditional" design. If you have clients who love European architecture but want something that feels current and livable, this is your inspiration home. The exterior gives you that timeless elegance with clean lines and subtle brick details, while the interior goes bold with dynamic ceilings, expressive wallcoverings, and fearless color choices. It's proof that traditional doesn't mean boring.
Falls Road – Designed for Real Living
Bentley Tibbs Architect designed this one around how the owners actually live: entertaining close friends and making their three dogs part of the family. The indoor-outdoor flow is seamless, with covered patios and screened porches creating distinct exterior "rooms." If you're working with buyers who entertain or have pet-friendly home features, the thoughtful design here is worth studying.
North Janmar Drive – Creative Problem-Solving
Laura Juarez Badgett's "Hacienda Modern" design is a perfect example of turning challenges into opportunities. A natural slope and floodplain restrictions could have been deal-breakers, but instead, they became design features through clever floor level changes. The result? A home that steps up to the entry, down to the main living area, and down again to the primary suite, creating drama and interest throughout. Plus, there's a motor court for car enthusiasts, and the blend of traditional Mexican tiles with modern elements is just stunning.
North Clinton Avenue – Historic Renovation Done Right
This one's special. A 1924 Kessler Park home that had never been updated until last year. Tezanto added 1,300 square feet and a new ADU (accessory dwelling unit—hello, rental income potential!) while getting every exterior detail approved by the Kessler Park Conservation District. If you own or are interested in historic properties in Dallas, this is a must-see for understanding how to modernize while preserving character.
Nutwood Circle – Design Philosophy Meets Function
Architect-owner Nandini Ramasesh designed her own home using Vaastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural philosophy focused on harmony between living spaces and natural forces. What we love: she turned a potential problem (a commercial property directly behind the lot) into a design feature by creating an inward-facing courtyard that becomes the heart of the home. It's a brilliant lesson in working with what you have.
Oliver Street – The Future of Urban Living
An energy-targeted net-zero home in Uptown Dallas? Yes, please. Abeyta Architecture Studio integrated geothermal systems, rooftop solar panels, battery storage, and a backup generator to create a home that produces as much energy as it consumes. With energy costs rising, we're seeing more buyers ask about sustainable features and green homes in Dallas. This home shows what's possible without sacrificing luxury or location.
Springbrook Street – Vertical Living Near Highland Park
A. Michael Architecture designed this 3,000-square-foot half-duplex to maximize every square foot across three levels. First floor: garage and flex room (with a racing simulator, because why not?). Second floor: open-concept living with a sculptural fireplace and showpiece bar. Third floor: primary and guest suites. It's smart urban design just steps from Highland Park.
Vanguard Way – Where Light and Art Live
Adjacent to White Rock Creek Trail, this Billy Ware & Sarah Harper design balances privacy with natural light beautifully. A 21-foot glass entry frames a 14-foot chandelier (talk about a statement!), and a cantilevered kitchen ceiling floats above a 16-foot island. The floor-to-ceiling fireplaces showcase locally-made glass sculpture. It's designed to be lived in and to showcase art.
What This Tour Can Teach Us About Today's Real Estate Market
After years in this business, we've noticed that the most successful renovations and new builds share something in common: they're informed by current design thinking. Here's what walking through these homes will teach you:
For Sellers: See what features today's buyers are looking for—from indoor-outdoor flow to sustainable systems to flexible spaces that adapt to different lifestyles.
For Buyers: Understand what's possible at different price points and in different Dallas neighborhoods. Get ideas for how to customize your next home or evaluate properties with renovation potential.
For Renovators: Learn how successful architects solve common problems—difficult lots, historic restrictions, energy efficiency, and making older homes work for modern living.
For Dreamers: Sometimes you just need to see what's possible to clarify your own vision. These tours always spark conversations with our clients about what they really want in a home.
The Practical Details You Need
Tour Dates: Saturday, October 25 & Sunday, October 26
Tour Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
Format: Self-guided (go at your own pace, revisit favorites)
Ticket Pricing:
- $55 if you buy before October 20
- $65 if you buy day-of
Where to Get Tickets: www.hometourdallas.com
Want the VIP Experience?
The Premiere Party is Thursday, October 23, at a luxury estate designed for elite dog care (not on the regular tour). For $150, you get passed hors d'oeuvres, open bar, meet-and-greets with the architects, and a ticket to the weekend tour. It's worth it if you want to chat with the designers before the crowds arrive.
Our Take: Why This Investment Pays Off
Look, we know $55-65 might seem like a lot for a home tour. But think about it this way: if you're considering a renovation that could cost $100K, $500K, or more, spending an afternoon seeing what's possible and what works well is incredibly valuable research. If you're buying a home, understanding current design trends and quality construction helps you recognize value when you see it.
We've had clients attend these tours and completely rethink their priorities—sometimes deciding to renovate instead of move, or realizing that an "impossible" lot actually has incredible potential. One client attended a few years ago and hired one of the tour architects for their project. Another saw a historic renovation that convinced them to buy in a neighborhood they'd previously overlooked.
The return on investment isn't just financial—it's educational and inspirational.
Let's Connect About What You See
Here's our suggestion: attend the tour, take notes, take photos (they're usually allowed), and then let's talk. We love discussing what's happening in the Dallas real estate market, what design trends are adding real value, and how specific architectural features might work (or not work) for your situation.
Maybe you'll see something that makes you think, "I could do that at my house!" or "That's exactly what I'm looking for in my next home!" When you do, we want to hear about it. We can help you understand what's realistic for your budget, connect you with architects and builders who can execute your vision, or find properties that already have those features you're dreaming about.
Ready to Be Inspired? Here's Your Next Step
Grab your tickets before October 20 to save $10, mark your calendar for the weekend of October 25-26, and plan to spend a few hours getting inspired by some of the best residential architecture Dallas has to offer.
And if you want company or want to chat about what you're seeing, let us know! We're planning to be there, and we're always happy to walk through with clients and talk about what makes these homes special from both an architectural and real estate perspective.
Let's Talk About Your Real Estate Goals
Whether you're inspired by these homes and thinking about your next move, or you have questions about the Dallas real estate market, we're here to help.
📱 Brandon: (214) 206-7778
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Tiffany: (972) 979-0978
📧 Email: [email protected]
The Hawkins Group Real Estate – helping Dallas homeowners make informed, inspired decisions.
P.S. – If you attend the tour, we'd love to hear which home was your favorite! Drop us a text or email and let us know what inspired you. We're always curious about what resonates with people.
