2003 Dallas Showhouse

The Southern Accents Showhouse a magnificant 12,350 square-foot French Normandy-style home.

Southern Accents has once again partnered with luxury builder Bob Thompson and renowned Dallas-based architect Robbie Fusch for their 2003 showhouse. A magnificent 12,350 square-foot French Normandy-style home built in the prestigious neighborhood of Glen Abbey in Dallas.

The architecture of this grand estate was inspired by the French Perigord region, incorporating traditional materials into the expansive design. The region, often referred to as the Dordogne” for the river that flows through it, represents a palimpsest of human history that includes ancient châteaux occupied by the English and French during the Hundred Years’ War. The Dallas house takes many of its design cues from these venerable estates, as well as from the charming villages that lie at their feet. We wanted to design a house that captured the rich architectural heritage and color of the Perigord.

In keeping with the rustic beauty of the region, a rusticated veneer of Granbury stone for the facade was used. The pale tones of the stone may have been inspired by the French countryside, but they are equally at home in Texas. Clay tiles with barrel-tile cornices cover the steeply pitched roof. In addition, the materials reflect the earthy palette of the Perigord. Red, reddish- brown and earthen-green tiles were carefully chosen to blend with the warm hues of the stone walls. The chalky French blue used on the shutters and trim is also characteristic of the region.