In Fort Worth’s Tanglewood, ‘Teardown’ Isn’t Necessarily a Bad Word

The article explores the evolving residential landscape of Tanglewood, a community within Fort Worth, where the concept of "teardown" is transforming older properties into modern homes. Tanglewood, established as the first development in Edwards Ranch, is characterized by its oversized lots and proximity to the highly-rated Tanglewood Elementary School. These factors contribute to the appeal of redeveloping existing, often smaller, 1960s ranch-style houses that typically span around 2,500 square feet and may lack contemporary amenities. The author expresses skepticism towards the phrase "highest and best use" when it serves as a justification for demolishing older homes, yet acknowledges that many redevelopments in Tanglewood are site-sensitive. The neighborhood currently exhibits an eclectic mix of original ranch homes, traditional architectural styles, authentic Midcentury Modern residences, and various new constructions. The article specifically highlights a 4,400-square-foot modern home at 2924 Harlanwood Drive, built in 2014, as an example of successful redevelopment. This three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath property is described as having a design that blends stone, stucco, and glass, harmonizing with its expansive lot featuring mature trees. This aesthetic is noted to resonate with the nature-conscious and site-sensitive architectural traditions of Texas, reminiscent of architects like O’Neil Ford. The interior tour begins with a dining room on the right, distinguished by a tray ceiling that defines the oblong space and two Sputnik-style glass chandeliers. Adjacent to the dining room is a flexible area suitable for a library or home office, with wide-plank oak flooring prevalent in the downstairs living areas. The home features an open-plan living space at the rear, also marked by a ceiling tray. This area is designed to maximize natural light through French windows, clerestory windows, and large skylights. The author notes a few asymmetrical design elements, such as a gas fireplace slit positioned at the end of the room. The eat-in kitchen presents a clean aesthetic with polished concrete floors, quartz countertops, and white cabinets. The choice of white cladding for the wide fridge/freezer is presented as a refreshing departure from common stainless steel finishes, though the electric cooktop is a point of minor critique. The principal bedroom suite is located on the ground level, encompassing a modern bathroom and an expansive closet system. The second floor is characterized as a "house within a house," featuring a large living area at the landing, which also includes an arch, noted as another instance of asymmetrical design. The remaining two bedrooms are situated on this level, each equipped with an en-suite bathroom and a private balcony. The outdoor space includes a well-appointed back garden with a covered outdoor living area, a large swimming pool with a spa, and ample additional space. A three-car garage is located to the side and rear of the property. The property at 2924 Harlanwood Drive is currently listed at $2.5 million by Mike Garza of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. #FortWorth #Tanglewood #TeardownHomes #ModernArchitecture #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalStyles #DallasLuxuryRealEstate #TanglewoodElementary #FortWorth #Tanglewood #TeardownHomes #ModernArchitecture #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalStyles #DallasLuxuryRealEstate #TanglewoodElementary