While I may not be able to build one of these “sorry, shortcakes, we’re blessed and did not need to worry bout budget” magnificent European style homes with Old World architecture and modern amenities, there’s still much to learn. What materials were deemed fine enough for the mix? How was tension created between rusticity and refinement? What architectural moves set it apart? How were reclaimed materials incorporated? I’m also interested in the homes because they ARE VERY REAL. Real hands were artfully crafting here. We are seeing a surge of artificial intelligence renderings of Old World, European style, sophisticated, warm and rustic, masculine, moody style dwellings. While they are wonderful for design inspiration for folks with plans to build, they will remain fantasies while these structures will gracefully age and breathe with life.
Builder: Jennifer Hamelet – Mirador Builders Architect: Murphy Mears
Old World Architecture Inspiration in New Builds
2445 Pine Valley Ct., Houston
This masterfully designed 5-bedroom, 10-bath home is near Pine Valley Park in Houston.
Built by Jennifer Hamelet of Mirador Builders, this recently sold new build caught my eye when it came on the market.
Not because I’m house shopping!
I am always on the prowl for homes built with materials from Chateau Domingue or architecture from Murphy Mears.
I’m a huge admirer of the work of those firms, and ever curious about design projects where they are involved.
This magnificent European style estate has elements of English and French architecture…my favorite combination.
You can’t miss the slate roof, cobblestone motor court, and gated driveway leading to a three-car garage with lift system.
You just know the home’s nearly 9,000 square will feel palatial inside.
Cozy Opulence & Warm Sophisticated Old World Architecture
But there’s an unfussy-ness that feels livable, and isn’t that what we’re all truly after?
While I may never have a view of my private pool and spa pavilion, I can learn to recognize fine craftsmanship!
The architectural soulfulness here is from Murphy Mears Architects.
As I mentioned, many of the construction materials were imported from Europe via Chateau Domingue.
Chateau Domingue also has a branch called Domingue Finishes with mineral paints, lime wash, etc.
You’ll see those finishes in this property too.
Situated on over half an acre, the fine interiors feature authentic architectural elements with artisan-quality Chateau Domingue sourced from around the world.
Note the 87″ Lacanche “Piano Gastronome” range, superior appliances, a butcher block island with marble insert for baking and a scullery with well-appointed pantries and storage.
The chef’s kitchen has an adjacent catering corridor…
and don’t you think we all deserve an adjacent catering corridor, scullery, dirty kitchen or whatever you like to call a secondary mini-kitchen?
Hahahahaha.
Chateau Domingue Sourced Materials in a Magnificent Manor
Are you noting the color stories and mix of design elements? In here, we see quiet greige walls with aged cream and terracotta. There’s a mix of living finishes as well as modern art and accents.
The primary suite features a vaulted ceiling, fireplace, and a surprisingly understated mood (you might expect more glam) in this showstopping bath.
I love the paneled walls so much in here!
There’s a lightness about it – so often the panels lend heaviness with ornate crowns, etc.
And Parisian style applied trims can often feel rather precious or even dollhouse-y. This strikes a beautiful balance of classic unfussy timeless charm.
Even if you simply study the utility room and bathroom designs within the home, you’re going to come away with gold.
You could easily personalize this with color and art as you wish, but the mix of materials is not going to look silly a decade from now.
I love the whimsy of the floor tile and the texture of those tumbled handmade tiles.
Bespoke Details in a European House With Architecture from Murphy Mears
The bespoke dressing room closets will bring you to tears.
There’s an elevator to access the upstairs game room and four guest suites.
Classic details in a beyond dreamy estate!
Take the tour:
3637 Meadow Lake, Houston
Builder: Elron Finishes: Chateau Domingue and Segreto Finishes
This home in River Oaks at 3637 Meadow Lake is by Elron and features lovely manicured gardens on a premier lot.
Chateau Domingue was also involved in this new build with flooring:
and finishes outside which play a starring role with Old Texas brick.
Another Houston firm I admire, Segreto Finishes, did amazing work on this home. The paneled library (above) is stunning.
I love all of the floor-to-ceiling windows and custom doors , and it all might seem too new were it not for 100-year-old antique oak floors and all of the artfully finished paneling.
There’s a spacious living and breakfast room with open concept to a marble island kitchen with Thermador appliances and wet bar.
Upstairs is an incredible primary suite with sitting area, coffee bar and spa-like bath.
Also find three more en-suite secondary bedrooms, a spacious theatre room, and a utility with pet-washing station.
The gourmet kitchen has top-of-the-line appliances, including a state-of-the-art marble coffee bar and a spectacular double island/breakfast room.
A wet bar flanking entertaining areas is hard to beat for entertaining. A gated driveway provides privacy for outdoor living space with covered patios, breezeways, and porte-cochere.
Folding glass wall, anyone? The living room overlooks a serene backyard with green space, lanai (with fully equipped summer kitchen), and multiple sitting areas. Peek inside here:
If you love Old World style and “undecorated” interiors, experience it on a much smaller scale in this 2-bedroom Spanish style Hollywood home:
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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