Contour Drive, Estate of the Day
They say to never judge a book buy a cover and it could be said that judging a house by its exterior is a similar folly. That would definitely be the case with today's home in San Antonio, Texas. The outside reveals its past, a French country home built in the 1930s, all ivy and stone and charm. But the home was renovated in 2000 by owners with an eye to having a far more modern home. Modern art, track lighting and the use of exposed pipe furniture creates a very contemporary look. There are things to love here, the gleaming floors, the bright white bookcases and the serene pool and spa area. The overall look of the home is just so different from the outside that it is a bit disconcerting. It is listed at $3.7 million. After the jump, new art and old rugs.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Spectacular Bid Aug 7th 2007 1:24PM
Amazing that a "renovation" can actually diminish a house's value, but here it is in black and white.
Is the rope dangling down from the second floor (by the curved stairs) for the visitors who want to hang themselves? One would think this house was used for a season's worth of reality TV for hack interior designers.
I have no issue with modern furnishings but it requires the right context and a degree of harmony. This ranks as a complete failure.
As pointed out the good thing is this: the seller takes all their junk with them and the buyer gets by and classic house with good lines and generous rooms.
liz Aug 7th 2007 2:30PM
I agree with the previous poster and also wondered why they had a noose in the front hall. The floor skylights, the kitchen and the stone fireplace surround would have to go, but it is a lovely home.
arcsine Aug 7th 2007 2:20PM
Putting that finish on that house is like oyster flavored ice cream.
Robin Aug 8th 2007 9:35AM
Looks like they went through an IKEA catalog when they decorated.. makes me cringe.
patric Aug 7th 2007 4:53PM
i loved it. I really really like this house.
greg Aug 7th 2007 6:34PM
I saw this and thought, eh, I'm not big on TX real estate, but houses like this are usually finished exceptionally well. Then I saw the pictures.
This might be okay...in a New York loft...and I stress might.
But it really does not work here.
flatlander Aug 8th 2007 5:31AM
I laughed out loud at Spectacular Bid's comment (Comment #1).
I sure hope that rope isn't hanging in the entryway. I'd expect a space looking like that to have sticky floors (might explain the mat) and reek of urinal cakes.
Jim Aug 8th 2007 9:56AM
That kitchen is downright bizarre.