A Modern Sanctuary: Redefining Highland Park Living with Joshua Rice Design

Written by Catherine Mo

Tucked into the tranquil east side of Highland Park in Dallas, Texas, a home designed by Joshua Rice Design redefines modern living. Built over three years, the house merges contemporary elegance with family-focused practicality, creating a sanctuary that balances urban accessibility with suburban calm. For the young family of six who call it home, the residence is a reflection of thoughtful design and deeply personal touches.

From the moment you approach the home, its distinctive character is apparent. Gray limestone walls, thermally modified wood panels, and stucco surfaces set the tone, all punctuated by vast Portuguese glass doors that flood the interiors with light. Rice worked closely with the architects to ensure every detail, from material choices to the home’s partial open-plan layout, would create a seamless flow. The layout itself speaks to intention: a sunken living room anchors the first floor, while the second level houses a treetop family room and en-suite bedrooms for the children.

Inside, the atmosphere is one of serenity. Eschewing the typical association of modern design with bright whites, Rice embraced a darker, muted palette. Rich, earthy tones in materials like fumed oak lend a calm and grounded feel, perfectly balanced by the abundance of natural light. “We wanted to create a space that felt grounded yet luxurious, drawing a strong connection to the natural materials and light,” he explains.

Rice’s vision extended beyond the walls, blending bespoke furnishings with iconic mid-century designs. The furniture selections, both rare and distinctive, bring a curated, almost museum-like quality to the home. The living room features vintage Danish "Scimitar" chairs paired with an Italian rosewood coffee table, while the hall boasts a custom Oxblood Leather and Walnut daybed designed by Rice himself.

Story continued in the LINK Below…

https://www.houseandgarden.co.za/interiors/a-modern-sanctuary-redefining-highland-park-living-with-joshua-rice-design-c3c62b10-a2c7-4ae1-a2ac-ecc20ba96599

Photography: Lacey Land