Oakland Terrace

 Published: 20 September 2008

Located in the heart of naturally beautiful southwest Dallas County and within the City of Dallas, the Oakland Terrace addition was developed in 1962 by Louis Hexter and business partner Ray Nasher on 47 acres of rolling pastureland. Back then the major access roads, South Polk Street and West Camp Wisdom Road were two-lane, asphalt paved roads.

In sync with nature

Streets were planned with great care, respecting the rolling contours of the land and the large native trees. Spacious lots vary in size, shape and elevation throughout the neighborhood. Each lot was sold separately to an individual or to an approved custom homebuilder that then constructed homes to satisfy specific owner requirements. Deed restrictions ensured that the homes built here were of high quality and that the neighborhood was completed as planned.

More than ten custom homebuilders worked to construct homes, one by one, for individual buyers over an eight-year period. Homes were designed and sited to relate to one another enhancing privacy, maximizing the openness of the spacious lots and to receive prevailing breezes. The design of each home is unique and no two homes are alike. A number of the original owners reside in the homes that they built here for themselves over 40 years ago.

Lush and luxurious

There are a variety of home styles in Oakland Terrace neighborhood ranging from Traditional, Ranch, Spanish influence, and Contemporary Styles. Home sizes range from spacious single story homes with three bedrooms and two baths to one-and-a-half story homes with five bedrooms and three baths. Homes are built on pier and beam foundations with 90 percent brick exteriors and feature two-foot wide roof overhang for sun protection. Masonry wood burning fireplaces add charm to the rooflines of the homes and are regularly enjoyed by residents during chilly winter months. All of the homes have two car-attached garages and additional on-site parking for four or more cars.

Interiors are well appointed with marble and terrazzo-tiled foyers, plaster moldings, decorative ceiling and wall finishes custom solid wood *built-in* kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. Mahogany, Ash and Birch paneled Dens have sliding-glass doors to outdoor patios to facilitate indoor-outdoor living year-round.

Award-winning

Many homes are award winning *Blue-Flame Homes*- featuring all gas appliances, outdoor grills and gaslights. Decorative details grace the exterior of the homes including custom wrought ironwork, millwork, and masonry. Well-maintained gardens adorn neighborhood homes. The beauty of the natural surroundings has been enhanced through the years by planting and nurturing of specimen trees and shrubs that are now mature. Many glowing gaslights and lampposts grace the neighborhood at night.

Visit the Oakland Terrace Neighborhood Association Website