A Stunning Mid-Century Apartment in Dallas

If you tuned in to my recent guest house renovation, you might recognize the incredible work of a Dallas architect and designer, Scott Parks. Over the years, I've sought his design wisdom and inspiration, so I was excited to showcase his apartment here without seeing it first. Upon my visit, I found a home that radiates sophistication and personal flair. Beyond inviting you to relax, Scott's living space is a masterclass in balance: blending neutrals with color, designer pieces with DIY charm, and vintage finds alongside modern designs — all coming together beautifully in this unique space that truly reflects Scott Parks.

photography by Stephen Karlisch

What a lovely, light-filled apartment! Can you share more about your space?

I live on the fourth floor of a charming mid-century building along Turtle Creek, not far from downtown Dallas. Coming from a cozy 450 sq. ft. NYC apartment with no outdoor space, I craved a bright and airy atmosphere that also felt connected to the outdoors, while still providing the comfort of a building. As a design aficionado, I sought a historic structure beloved by its residents. I instantly fell for 3701 Turtle Creek, which overlooks lush greenery. The building exudes charm without feeling pretentious, fostering a real sense of community thanks to its rich history. Constructed in 1963, it's among the earliest residential high-rises in Dallas, showcasing stunning mid-century architecture with many original features, including its vintage windows! It was established as a condo association shortly after condo laws were introduced in Texas in the 1970s, backed by a group of investors that included Stanley Marcus, founder of Nieman Marcus. Notably, scenes from the TV show Dallas were filmed here, and Jerry Hall once called the penthouse home during her time with Mick Jagger.

featured: dining table by Richard Schultz for Florence Knoll, from three years after Scott's building was built; chairs designed by Paul Volther for Frem Rolje featuring original caning; paint color Ice Mist from Benjamin Moore

Who would you love to have over as guests?

I don't cook as much as I'd like, but I do enjoy preparing meals and hosting. Honestly, my favorite moments are shared with close friends and family, trying to spoil them with delicious food.

Your space feels so well-coordinated and thoughtfully arranged. Did you face any challenges during the design process?

When we moved from New York, we brought very little furniture since most of it was college-era. Additionally, we were doubling our space, which was initially a bit overwhelming. My biggest challenge was being patient enough to select only high-quality, meaningful pieces that would blend well together and last over time.

Describe your home in five words or fewer:

Light-filled, artistic treehouse.

This balcony is stunning. Do you spend a lot of time here?

I love getting lost in drawing and design. A lovely cup of coffee complements the experience. Caring for our balcony plants is also enjoyable; I even grew okra this summer!

What inspired your home's design?

The building's history was my starting point, leading me to explore the motivating forces behind mid-century design, from color palettes to spatial layouts. I drew inspiration from my collection of objects, considering how to best showcase them. Plus, I aimed to ensure my partner felt at home, too!

Your color choices are fantastic. They're vibrant yet subtle. What advice do you have for integrating color into a space?

Color is interpreted uniquely by everyone, influenced by personal memories and experiences. I find that color discussions with clients lead to fascinating insights. Each project requires boldness in following your instincts and experimenting until it feels right for everyone involved.

featured: lounge chair designed by Le Corbusier for Cassina in the 1920s

featured: coffee cubes from the 1950s with purple feet and glass tops added by Scott; rug from Restoration Hardware; sofa from DWR; living room painting by Scott

How do you approach shopping for your home?

I enjoy a diverse approach; one day I might thrift an item, the next I may create something, and then order something new online. This variety allows for a rich blend of styles and eras in my furnishings. For soft items like beds and sofas, I usually opt for new or fully reupholstered pieces for cleanliness. Hard items like tables and chairs often come from thrifting, like my coffee table cubes, which I modified for durability with new feet and glass tops.

featured: original Milo Baughmann Scoop Chairs that Scott reupholstered in denim

What's your top interior design tip?

Design at a pace that suits your life and relish the process. Spaces that are rushed tend to reflect that haste.

Any advice for maintaining a clean and clutter-free space?

Only acquire items you genuinely love and that are crafted with care. Then, make sure to put things away after use. Don't save tidying up for tomorrow.

featured: dark wood chair from the 1930s, sourced from Scott's grandfather's barber shop in Stillwater, Oklahoma; burgundy vase by Aesthetic Pursuit

featured below: vintage dresser designed by Yngve Ekstrom

featured: bed frame and nightstands from DWR Min Collection; bolster pillow custom-made; euro shams by Yves Delorme;
blanket by Garza Marfa; sconces by Workstead; photograph by Felix Gonzalez Torres from a 2010 exhibition at Fondation Beyeler;

If you could choose, what's your favorite spot in your apartment?