Driving under a canopy of oaks and pecans that graces the parkway, a visitor to the M Streets today might pause to rethink the original meaning of suburb. In the 1920's, Greenland Hills, now known as the M Streets, represented a conscious attempt to create a quality residential development on the fringe of Dallas. Built on rolling hills, this plan incorporated strict architectural guidelines and well-conceived landscaping. This careful thought has culminated in fully grown trees, picturesque streets and the same pleasant environment that continues to attract residents who appreciate the charm of this historic neighborhood.

Unlike surrounding Belmont and Vickery Place -- whose development took place in distinct phases, with larger homes first and smaller, less expensive infill later -- Greenland Hills was planned and developed all at once. In 1926, when Dallas' boundary ended at McCommas Avenue, Frank and Fletcher McNeny bought the land which is now Greenland Hills. The McNenys built streets and sewers, and then parceled out the land to individual builders. Despite the Great Depression, the houses proved popular to young professionals who could not afford the more opulent homes in Highland Park and Munger Place, which were developed only a few years before Greenland Hills.

Undoubtedly, the M Streets represent Dallas' most uncluttered district in terms of architectural continuity. Although the houses were not all built by the same builder, they all seem to be variations on a theme: Tudor-style versions of English cottages. In house after house are seen distinct high-gabled roofs, leaded-glass windows, intriguing stonework, large masonry chimneys, carved columns and other scaled-down, castle-like features.

Despite their planned development ancestry, each home possesses a distinct floor plan replete with alcoves, mantels, ceramic tile work and hardwood floors showcased by wide, floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows.

 

Home    Our Mission     Sign Up for E-mail Updates    Proposed Ordinance
FAQs     News     Neighborhood Architectural Study    Resources    Contact Us