Located in Dallas’ Lake Cliff Historic District, 514 North Marsalis was constructed circa 1925 as a private residence. Vacant for years, an investor purchased it in 2016 to preserve it, while converting it to financially viable creative offices.

The building contains a total of 2770 sf on two levels. While the general structure was relatively good, the overall condition was not. MEP systems were non-functioning, the building was minimally insulated, and bathrooms were substandard. Interior spaces were dark and uninviting, and the original ceiling had been lowered to 8 feet.

DSGN worked with city staff and Landmark Commission to renovate 514 to the Secretary of the Interior’s standards. Repairs were made to original windows and doors, brick veneer, wood soffits and fascias. Paint colors were selected for compatibility with original date of construction. Parking and handicapped access were added per code and landscape was enhanced per historic district regulations.

The interior renovation, aimed at creative users, included semi-private offices, conference room, reception, and ADA-compliant restrooms and kitchen. Interior detailing is transitional, simple, and elegant — whites, grays, steel and wood. Existing wood floors were maintained and repaired, asbestos was abated, and high-efficiency MEP systems were installed, including LED lighting.