Cromwell Hill is at the heart of esteemed Old Enfield, an area which has long been a destination for local and regional leaders of various industries and the community. Steeped in history and provenance, this exemplary estate has been lovingly restored and expanded over the years. Easily one of the finest urban residences in the state, the Norman Tudor-style compound was originally built for Eugene and Frances Tips in 1930-1932. Eugene Tips was the son of Walter Tips, who owned Tips Iron & Steel. The home’s architecture and distinctive weeping mortar reflect the French heritage of Frances Tips. The steel magnates lived there until the mid-1940’s. Rare book sellers enjoyed it next, followed by Texas Supreme Court Justice Thomas Phillips and charismatic beer baron Lowell Lebermann. The two most recent owners, along with Lebermann, have all served the University of Texas as Board of Regents members. Lebermann meticulously transformed and expanded the home with notable builder Bo Bezdek and architect Steve Kubenka. They added critical elements in the expansion – a spacious master suite, 2-car garage, elevator, and the Moorish-inspired pool house, all of which seamlessly blend with the original structure. More recently, the current owners added a few strategic modern touches guided by the skilled leadership of architect, Matt Garcia, and interior designer, Sara Scaglione. Great care and attention to detail went into the renovation in 2006-2008. Bezdek literally flew to upstate New York to source matching Detroit Steel windows and doors. He also bought more than 200,000 authentic Butler bricks from a San Antonio rubble yard to match the original 1930’s brick. Today, as you enter the foyer into a stylish gallery hall, the striking floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace in the living room beckons. Flawlessly restored exposed beams draw your eyes to the soaring 18-foot ceiling, a rarity in a house of this period. The dining room connects to this living area and provides ample space for a festive dinner party. The adjoining kitchen was expanded into a chef’s and entertainer’s dream. The current owner updated it further with fresh modern fixtures and finishes. A second living space with another elegant fireplace awaits just around the corner. Two sets of French doors flank the fireplace and open to a peaceful covered patio which is perfect for relaxing or dining al fresco. The expanded master suite includes a sitting area, coffee bar and study. Vaulted ceilings with beams match the open and airy feel of the living room. An additional fireplace adds a cozy ambiance. The private covered veranda running the length of the master overlooks the gorgeous pool and manicured grounds. The master bath, recently remodeled by Garcia, is a destination of luxury and comfort. A dramatic marble accent wall encloses an exquisite oversized steam shower and a modern freestanding tub allows for peaceful relaxation. Also on the main level, a beautifully appointed private guest suite provides visitors with serene ambiance and gorgeous views of the gardens. The upper level is perfect for kids of all ages. Anchored by a large living space, it connects with an enormous bedroom ideal for sleepovers. A reading nook is tucked at the top of the stairs and the adjoining outdoor terrace sits among the treetops. The lower level is highly functional, with another guest bedroom including en-suite bath, spacious utility room, generously sized storage closets, powder bath, gym and 2-car climate controlled garage complete with an electric car charger. Last but certainly not least, the pool house is accented with soaring ceilings and gorgeous antique steel and glass windows, creating a seamless flow to the pool and welcoming grounds beyond.
