Tom Landry’s legacy can be felt throughout Dallas. Everything from stadiums to a section of Interstate 30 bear the legendary Dallas Cowboys coach’s name, and the list of former players who remember him fondly is long—and deeply impressive. But the Landry family’s presence can also be felt (and, as of today, purchased) just north of Preston Hollow.
Custom-built in 1962 for the Landrys, the 4,000-square-foot mid-century ranch house by Hockaday has been carefully renovated by its latest owner (one of only three), Texas Christian University graduate Matthew Lopez, whose connection to the Landry family runs deep. While working for American Airlines, Lopez’s father created a special bond with Landry when he was young. When Lopez tore his ACL at 15-years-old, Landry wrote him a personal letter, which currently hangs in the home’s hallway alongside other Landry memorabilia (though those items will leave with the owner, of course).
The moment the property hit the market in 2015, Lopez jumped on the opportunity. “I purchased the home because of the connection to Coach Landry, but the home is such a special place,” Lopez says. “You just know that you’re a part of a special lineage when you’re here.
Though Lopez was cautious not to tarnish the home’s character, he had a strong vision for bringing it up to date. Walls were removed to open up the house and highlight its wall of windows in the back. New lighting, paint, and hand-scraped hardwoods throughout create a more unified look, while a gourmet kitchen is an entertainer’s dream. “I’ve had a few parties at this house, and it has a great flow,” Lopez adds.
One thing that Lopez was careful not to alter: the outdoor atrium. “I have a picture of Coach Landry and his family standing by the bird bath out there,” Lopez says. “I did want to preserve that. It’s where I have my coffee in the morning.”
