Court of Dreams
Pat Dilbeck reminisces about the house and unique atrium husband Charles Dilbeck built for her.
 |
| Pat Dilbeck |
Driving down Cornell Avenue, you think that the French townhouse at 3501 is unremarkable.
But take one step beyond the entry and you know you’re in a very special—even familiar—place: the mixture of natural materials, high beams, and fireplaces are clearly the work of late architect Charles Dilbeck.
In fact, this house is the swan song he designed for his wife Pat and the home where they lived together, raised a family, and entertained friends since 1970. The house is now for sale, though the hope is that the next owner will understand and appreciate its significance. “I don’t think anyone would ever tear this house down,” Dilbeck says. “It’s such a fine house. But,” she notes, “people do some crazy things in this neighborhood.”
The house is built around a two-story atrium that feels like a New Orleans courtyard and creates an organic centerpiece for the $1 million residence. Filled year-round with flowers and greenery, this is Mrs. Dilbecks favorite room, the heart of her home, and the place where she shared countless meals and cocktails with her husband.
It is undoubtedly the room she will miss most when she moves. “I’ll never have another atrium again,” she says, looking around the room wistfully. “This room and my husband are just one-of-a-kind.”
