It is not a stretch to dub the home of Steven Laird and his wife, Patricia Calabria, “palatial.” But you probably already decided that after a quick glance at the photographs on this and the ensuing pages. Located in Somerset Estates on the east side where Arlington and Fort Worth come together, the dwelling offers plenty of space and even more pizzazz, pretty much from any vantage point.
The home has five bedrooms in the main house, with a full gym that could easily be converted into a sixth bedroom, Laird says. There is a separate living quarter with another queen-size bed, as well.
“The house and gardens sit on more than one and a half acres,” Laird notes. “The total living area is approximately 10,000 square feet.”
The Italian-inspired structure hosts picturesque views through expansive arched windows. Inside, it is both warm and welcoming, with an expansive and versatile floor plan. A neutral palette with subtle differences in shades and tone keep the home current and timeless.
It has a safe room, a generator, a well for watering manicured gardens, a dramatic entry, a chef kitchen, a walnut-paneled study, an elevator and multiple outdoor living spaces accented by manicured gardens. Laird also notes that a spacious media room, a fun game room area and the exercise room provide ample opportunities for entertainment, leisure and workouts – amenities the family has enjoyed immensely.
Outside, the gardens have an orchard with a variety of fruit trees, herbs, and a raised vegetable garden. The gardens have a separate well for irrigation, while the house and five fountains are supplied by city water.
Laird, an attorney for 38 years, and Calabria, a dentist in Colleyville, are the lone dwellers, now that their kids are grown.
That is a big reason why the couple has put the house on the market. “Although we truly love the home and grounds in every way, we simply don’t need this much space,” Laird says. “We hate the thought of leaving a perfect home, but downsizing just makes sense.”
The family has lived in the house for the past 12 years. Laird says they were drawn by the exclusiveness of the area, the “incredible” friendliness of the neighbors, and the privacy of the subdivision in the gated neighborhood.
The area sports a large common area park, a beautiful lake in the middle of the subdivision, majestic homes – and “most importantly, great people,” Laird says. Doctors, lawyers, dentists, business owners, and retired individuals help make up the community. “It’s an eclectic, but very friendly, group,” he says. “Neighbors really do become friends, and this subdivision proves it.”
As for the home proper to which he and his wife will bid farewell, he says it’s like many in today’s world, where people congregate in the kitchen and den areas during most social events. “Thankfully, our kitchen and den areas are welcoming and large,” he says. “Outside, the patio and backyard fireplace have entertained many people during different events all during the year. Whether warming by the fire or cooking s’mores, the outdoor fireplace has been a great gathering place. On the patio by the cabana, we have had two outdoor weddings. Many other events have been held here, both inside and out, including both large and small dinners inside and outdoors.”
Laird and Calabria have had to do almost no renovations since moving in. “The house has been perfect for entertaining, and just living, including raising a family,” he says. Beyond providing them ample pleasure, the dwelling also has been the site of events for national and local politicians, the aforementioned weddings, birthday parties, holiday gatherings, neighborhood parties, and family dinners and events, all accommodating everyone easily and comfortably. “It has been an incredible home for simply relaxing with family or entertaining on a grand scale,” he says.
Laird says some of his and Calabria’s most pleasant memories include sitting on the front upstairs balcony and surveying the lake, common areas, and other magnificent homes from an elevated level at a distance.
“The great times that we’ve had with our kids, family, and friends enjoying the home and gardens cannot be replaced,” he says. “Our home is truly a one-of-a-kind treasure. We always wanted the home and gardens to complement each other. So many people have confirmed what we have always felt and wanted: that this is a unique home and property in every way imaginable.”
In other words, it is just what a palace should be.
