Collin County Architects

In some regions, it seems like growth happens without much thought—developers chasing trends, filling every bit of space they can. But some places are built around something deeper: a shared vision, a sense of values, and the belief that architecture means more than just putting a roof over your head. The Park Cities area of Dallas is one of those rare places.

In Highland Park and University Park, the way homes are built is central to the neighborhood’s identity. The houses don’t just sit on lots—they belong there. The streets aren’t just streets—they’re part of a bigger story, one of thoughtful planning, enduring beauty, and design that stands the test of time.

So, what makes Park Cities stand out? Why, more than a century after it was established, does it still serve as a benchmark for timeless home design? The answer lies in the principles that shaped it, the traditions that keep it rooted, and the thoughtful ways it continues to evolve.

Where It All Began

To understand Park Cities architecture, you have to understand its beginnings. While other parts of Dallas grew organically, Highland Park and University Park were meticulously planned. In the early 1900s, John S. Armstrong and George Kessler weren’t just laying out infrastructure—they were creating a vision. They imagined a neighborhood where homes worked in harmony with their surroundings and contributed to a greater aesthetic whole.

They planned wide streets, required homes to be set back, and encouraged architectural styles with timeless appeal. The idea was bold for its time: build homes that wouldn’t just stand—but last.

Classic Design Roots

Walk the streets of Park Cities and you’ll see homes that look like they’ve always been there. That’s no accident. The area’s look has remained steady, favoring traditional styles that age gracefully and still function beautifully in modern life.

From Georgian Revival to Neoclassical estates, the homes reflect classical architecture principles:

• Symmetry and proportion for balance and harmony.
• Durable exteriors made of brick, limestone, or stucco.
• Detailed woodwork and stately entrances that show craftsmanship and elegance.

These weren’t homes designed to impress for a decade. They were designed to look beautiful for a century or more.

Spanish and Mediterranean Influence

By the 1920s and 1930s, as Dallas became more connected nationally, Mediterranean and Spanish Revival styles found a home in Park Cities. These styles brought warmth and charm, with signature elements like:

• Stucco exteriors and red tile roofs.
• Arched windows and ornamental ironwork.
• Shaded courtyards and colorful tilework.

Even with their softer edges and romantic flair, these homes stayed true to the neighborhood’s focus on quality materials and skilled construction.

The Lasting Appeal of Tudor Revival

If there’s a signature look for Highland Park or University Park, it’s Tudor Revival. These homes—with steep gables, leaded-glass windows, and exposed wood beams—feel historic and personal at the same time.

They’re not just dressed-up replicas. Many feature hand-laid brick, real timber framing, and thoughtful design. These are homes that speak not just to an era, but to the care of those who built and maintain them.

Rules That Preserve Character

Great neighborhoods don’t stay great by chance. It takes planning and shared values. Park Cities has long understood that architecture isn’t just personal—it’s collective. The community has set rules to preserve that shared vision.

Zoning and Setback Regulations

• Setbacks keep homes from crowding the street, maintaining openness.
• Lot coverage limits prevent oversized homes from dominating their lots.
• Height restrictions protect the neighborhood’s cohesive look and scale.

These rules make sure that even when homes are updated or rebuilt, they still respect the feel of the street and the neighborhood as a whole.

Architectural Review Boards

Beyond zoning, architectural review boards in both Highland Park and University Park help ensure that new construction and renovations stay in step with the area’s character. The goal isn’t to stop change—it’s to guide it. The boards support homeowners in making thoughtful choices that contribute to the overall vision, rather than disrupt it.

Balancing Progress with Tradition

No neighborhood thrives by standing still. Park Cities continues to grow—but it grows with intention. That’s why its architectural integrity remains intact even as new homes are built and old ones are updated.

Modern Homes with Classic Roots

In many places, a modern house can feel jarring. But in Park Cities, the best modern homes draw from the same principles that shaped their traditional neighbors. They use:

• Clean lines paired with rich, honest materials.
• Large windows designed with classic proportions in mind.
• Open interiors that serve today’s lifestyles without compromising the home’s character.

Restoration Over Replacement

Another reason Park Cities feels so cohesive? Homeowners often choose to restore, not demolish. It’s common to see a classic home thoughtfully expanded or modernized—without losing its original charm.

• Original materials are preserved wherever possible.
• Upgrades respect the home’s historic bones.
• Energy efficiency is improved in ways that maintain the home’s integrity.

The result is a neighborhood that evolves—but never loses its sense of self.

A Lasting Legacy

Some neighborhoods are built for the moment. Park Cities was built to last. Its streets tell a story of care, creativity, and community. The homes aren’t just for today’s families—they’re made to welcome future generations, too.

And that’s what makes Park Cities different. While other neighborhoods follow fads or reinvent themselves every decade, Park Cities stands strong as a benchmark for enduring design, craftsmanship, and architectural excellence.

Because truly great neighborhoods aren’t built overnight. They’re built on history—and shaped with purpose.