In February, the Dallas design community was thrilled to learn that the Kips Bay Decorator Show House would be making its North Texas debut this fall.
The charitable event series began in New York almost five decades ago. Each year, designers transform Manhattan residences and open them up to the public. Ticket sales benefit a local youth organization, the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club.
In addition to New York City and Palm Beach, Dallas is the third city in the nation to earn the honor of hosting a Show House.
For months, the design community has wondered where, exactly, the inaugural event would take place. Finally, we have an answer. The 2020 Kips Bay Decorator Show House will take place at 5828 Woodland Drive, a palatial estate in Old Preston Hollow.
“We’re delighted to have found our newest Show House in Old Preston Hollow,” said James Druckman, President of the Board of the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club.
We at D Magazine have admired this not-so-humble abode for years. In 2019, we featured the home in our Hot Property series. While it’s no longer on the market, its owners will graciously grant Kips Bay access for the month-long event.
5828 Woodland Drive boasts 11,476 square feet of living space, which is ideal for an event that will likely draw thousands of guests. The home was built in 2003, though it resembles a decades-old French chateau. Two iron gates guard the ivy-covered façade, and crepe myrtles and oak trees create even more seclusion. Guests are greeted by a striking foyer, which boasts 20-foot ceilings, a winding staircase, and a glittering crystal chandelier. Each room is equally glamorous; we spotted arched ceilings, exposed beams, pretty crown molding, and metallic tile backsplashes. The backyard, too, is idyllic, with a huge pool, a verdant lawn, and an abundance of mature trees.
In the coming months, Kips Bay will announce the Dallas designers who have been invited to transform individual rooms in the 5-bedroom estate. For now, only the event’s chairs have been announced: Steele Marcoux, Christopher Peacock, and Jan Showers. Vice chairs are Jean Lui and Chad Dorsey.
“We’re eager to unveil what our top-notch group of designers have in store for the extraordinary space this September,” says Druckman.
In light of COVID-19, The Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas will be taking extra safety precautions, including limited attendance to encourage social distancing. Masks will be encouraged. The staff will also undergo health screenings, and the Show Home will be cleaned regularly and thoroughly.
“This is such an important event for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club and the design industry alike,” said Dan Quintero, the Executive Director of the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club. “With the hardships so many have faced in 2020, we’re more motivated than ever to host The Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas, to continue raising critical funding for our kids and community, as well as provide an unforgettable opportunity for the Dallas area.”
In addition to supporting Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, the event will benefit Dwell with Dignity, which creates beautifully decorated residences for North Texas families transitioning out of homelessness and poverty.
The Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas will be open to the public from September 25 to October 25. Follow @kbshowhouse for updates.
