The “El Camino Real Bells” along with their destination have long influenced today’s architecture.

My design career has been influenced by the history of the California missions, specifically when designing California classic homes and commercial buildings from this era.

The “El Camino Real Bells” were in place from the early part of the last century to designate the route of “El Camino Real” from San Diego to Sonoma, California. They were built by the Spanish during the early mission days.

370 original bells graced The El Camino Real, (Royal Highway or King’s Highway), which is guided by Highway 101 in California. The El Camino Real is the first recorded road in the state, and was built by the Spanish when the missions were operational.

Most bells were produced in the 1920’s and over the years have been displayed on commercial and residential properties of historical importance. They have a dignity denoting mission and convey the Spanish Colonial or Spanish Revival periods.

When I was commissioned to design homes and commercial buildings from this era, some of my travel and research took me through the El Camino Real, reviewing the homes and buildings of the 1920’s. This allowed me to journey back into time and find sources sensitive to the era and lifestyle. This would assist me in the design which would soon be dictated by the historic influence of these periods. I found skilled artisans who hand painted tile from this era and were baking them on site all while I watched. There were shops with one-of-a-kind 1920’s lanterns, hardware, vintage iron and vintage wood carvings and of course, old mission bells.

When we look at a beautifully well constructed home or building with a unique design that stands out, is rich in history, is a meticulous reproduction of an era, however new in amenities, it more than likely is the result of a dedicated designer’s travels and research which has been interpreted into an owner’s dream.

While Spanish Colonial is a classic period it is only part of the Miller Young Design portfolio of style and eras that we embrace. We at Miller Young Design have created “Classic Origins” for connoisseurs of traditional homes. This is a signature design for those who desire a home designed with authentic influences enhanced by a library of fine pieces crafted in Old World techniques, celebrated in spaces of serene contentment.

Posted by:Linda Young

Representing truly unique and special properties is one of the highlights of my residential real estate career. And, frankly, it’s not every day that I have the opportunity to represent a modern masterpiece!

Designed by Glen Allen Galaway, who trained with Philip Johnson in New York, as his Dallas home, the mid-Century Modern residence at 7010 Airline in University Park is a shining star in the Park Cities.

The Park Cities includes the small, affluent towns of Highland Park and University Park, which are actually island cities surrounded by the much larger city of Dallas. Both towns are well known for significant architecture, but not typically of the modern variety!

The property offers an ideal setting in which to display a significant modern art collection. Natural lighting plays a prominent role in its design – and skylights add to the drama.

The current owners made a commitment to preserve the integrity of this significant Dallas residence and I am proud to have been chosen to represent their home. This magnificent residence truly offers buyers who appreciate mid-Century Modern architecture an unmatched opportunity in this part of the world.

Posted by:Dave Perry-Miller

Greenway Parks is a 150-acre neighborhood three miles north of downtown Dallas known for its abundant parks and homes of architectural significance.

Designed in 1927 by David R. WIlliams, the neighborhood was an innovative concept intended to be like no other American suburb. Homes in Greenway Parks are clustered around a series of open private parkways in the English Commons tradition, offering residents ample green space in the center of a major metropolitan area.

Noted architects who have designed homes in the neighborhood include Charles Dilbeck, O’Neil Ford, Howard Meyer, Ralph Bryan and John Aston Perkins. A strong homeowners association, as well as deed restrictions, have helped to preserve the integrity of Greenway Parks.

The neighborhood is increasingly popular with upscale Dallas homebuyers -- so popular that one of my recent listings (pictured) drew as many as four prospective buyers a day and went under contract in only six days!

By: Dave Perry-Miller, a luxury real estate expert serving Dallas, TX