AIA Dallas Tour of Homes Marks 20 Years With Architect-Owned Homes and Award-Winning Projects

September 8, 20263 min read

Home by Ghost Architects featured at 2026 AIA Dallas Tour of Homes | Parrish Ruiz de Velasco

The AIA Dallas Tour of Homes returns October 24 and 25 for its 20th year, opening eight architect-designed residences across Dallas and Fairview to the public.

Across the group, Tour Co-Chair Justin Leal noticed a recurring focus on simplicity, natural materials, craftsmanship, outdoor areas, and more flexible interiors. He also highlighted the specific decisions made that shape how the homes function, including where to invest more, how natural light enters a room, and how plans can accommodate changes in the way owners use a home over time.

AIA Dallas President Michael Malone, who serves on the Home Tour Committee, noticed a similar approach to finishes. In many of the residences, he said, upgraded materials support the way the spaces are organized instead of serving mainly as decoration.

Several of this year’s homes were designed by the architects who live in them, something Leal said made them feel especially “personal and intentional.” Tour Co-Chair Morgan Harrison also considers the architect-owned homes a highlight, noting the unusual opportunity to see what architects prioritize when designing for themselves.

Home by Design Shop featured at 2026 AIA Dallas Tour of Homes | Aaron Dougherty

Nuanced approaches to home design are showcased across the properties in various ways. One of the largest residences ever included on the tour is a Fairview estate with an indoor gymnasium and private pond, while another home is organized around a private courtyard. A renovation elsewhere preserves the original residence as it appears from the street while adding substantial new space behind it.

Several residences on the tour have also received AIA Dallas design awards. Leal sees the range of the homes as evidence that residential architecture in North Texas is becoming less uniform in appearance and design.

“We’re seeing homeowners move beyond a one-size-fits-all idea of what a North Texas home should look like and instead embrace homes that reflect their individual lifestyles, values, and personalities,” he said.

Malone sees that range as a reflection of the Dallas architecture community as well. Each project was designed for a particular client, and he pointed to collaboration between homeowners and architects as an important part of what gives the residences their individual character.

Home by Design Shop featured at 2026 AIA Dallas Tour of Homes | Aaron Dougherty

A separately ticketed Premiere Party on October 22 will open another residence overlooking White Rock Lake, designed by Laura Juarez Baggett Studio. The owners’ interest in entertaining and live performance shaped the home, with a music room that opens to a covered patio that can also serve as a performance area. It will not be part of the regular weekend tour.

Now in its 20th year, the AIA Dallas Tour of Homes offers access to private residences that visitors would not ordinarily be able to enter. The architect-owned homes are a particular draw this year, and the full lineup displays how varied custom residential architecture across North Texas can be.