During the Italian renaissance, palazzi—palaces—were built for royalty by such architectural luminaries as Michelozzi and Palladio. With its iconic symmetrical design, neat rows of windows, and sturdy prominent cornices, this 9,638-square-foot three-story residence would look perfectly at home among the palazzi in Rome, Florence, and Venice. Instead, it enjoys a prime position on a coveted block in the exclusive leafy environs of Houston’s Tanglewood and is the work of award-winning area architect Robert Dame.
Houston, Texas | Ruthie Porterfield, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty
The influence of classical style is immediately apparent in the home’s paver motor court, gated drive, and façade of hand-carved stone, which displays such quintessential elements as ornate ironwork, graceful arches, and stately balusters. Beyond doors by Craftsmen in Wood is a foyer, from which an array of striking, sophisticated spaces unfold: a formal dining room accented with exposed beams and a crystal chandelier; an eye-catching bar clad in one-of-a-kind backlit onyx; a dramatic powder room; a living room with soothing Venetian plaster walls, dazzling vaulted ceilings, stone floors, and an elaborate stone fireplace mantle; and a stunning wood-clad library with lighted shelves and unique carved walls, ceilings, cabinets, and doors. Open to the living room in an effortless flow, the kitchen boasts a Sub-Zero refrigerator-freezer, a Wolf range with distinctive hand-carved stone hood, custom mahogany cabinets, a granite-topped island with counter seating, and a placid breakfast area overlooking the backyard and pool.
Just outside is an impeccably outfitted stainless-steel outdoor kitchen and grilling area perfect for festive alfresco celebrations. The adjoining poolside loggia offers space for dining and lounging in the fresh air. Water features contribute to the tranquil feel of the very private swimming pool and spa, which are bordered by a relaxing terrace, colorful landscaping, and towering palms.
A curving stairway with wrought-iron railing and richly hued wooden stairs rises fluidly to the upper floors and the private quarters. Beneath a lighted coved ceiling, the owner’s suite is a quiet retreat with hardwood floors, its own stone fireplace, a relaxing sitting area, a coffee bar with a refrigerator, a room-size walk-in closet designed by Programme Martin, both a shower and a jetted tub, sparkling crystal chandeliers and sconces, and two discreet water closets. Two peaceful guest bedrooms are accompanied by spacious en suite baths; the fourth also includes a generous, inviting sitting area. An expansive stone terrace on the third level provides a serene panorama of treetops and the surrounding skyline.
Although it may bring to mind a classic palazzo, the home is thoroughly equipped for consummate modern comfort and convenience. Among its other highlights are an enviable home theater with a projector and reclining leather seats; a professional-caliber gym with a bath, a steam room, a shower, and a juice bar; a game and media room; an office with a wraparound granite-topped desk and numerous thoughtful built-ins; an elevator; an oversized three-car garage with handsome wood doors; and a suite of amenities perfect for today’s unique high-tech lifestyle.
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