Preserving History at Lexford Park: A Landmark Bell Tower Begins Its Next Chapter
Every community has elements that help define its identity. Sometimes it's a tree-lined boulevard. Sometimes it's distinctive architecture. And sometimes it's a landmark that has quietly stood watch over the area for decades.
At Lexford Park, one of those defining features is the preserved bell tower that remains on the property. As construction continues and new homes begin to take shape, this iconic structure serves as a visual connection between the site's past and its future.
Recently, our team reached one of the more enjoyable milestones in the development process: testing paint colors for the bell tower's restoration.
While much of community development involves infrastructure, engineering, construction schedules and planning, projects like this offer an opportunity to focus on the details that give a neighborhood its character. Choosing the right color may seem like a small decision, but thoughtful design choices help create a lasting sense of place.
Blending Historic Preservation with New Community Development
One of the guiding principles behind Lexford Park has been the belief that growth and preservation can work together.
Across Oklahoma City, some of the most beloved neighborhoods are those that have maintained a strong architectural identity while continuing to evolve over time. Historic districts such as Heritage Hills, Mesta Park, Crown Heights and Gatewood remain highly desirable because they combine beautiful homes, walkable streets and a distinct sense of character.
Lexford Park draws inspiration from those timeless neighborhood principles while introducing new homes designed for modern living.
Preserving the bell tower allows a recognizable landmark to remain part of the landscape while creating a visual anchor for the community. Rather than removing every trace of the property's history, the goal has been to thoughtfully incorporate meaningful elements into the neighborhood's future.
Why Details Matter in Neighborhood Design
When people think about new construction communities, they often focus on floor plans, square footage or home features. While those elements are important, many of the factors that make a neighborhood memorable are found in the details.
Architectural consistency, green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, public gathering areas and preserved landmarks all contribute to a stronger sense of community.
At Lexford Park, these design considerations are part of a broader vision that emphasizes:
- Thoughtful community planning
- Traditional neighborhood design principles
- Walkability and connectivity
- Architectural character
- Greenbelt views and open space
- Long-term neighborhood value
- Preservation of significant site features
The bell tower is one example of how these ideas come together in a tangible way.
Creating a Distinctive New Home Community in Oklahoma City
As demand for new homes in Oklahoma City continues to grow, buyers are increasingly looking for neighborhoods that offer more than just a collection of houses.
Today's homebuyers value community identity, quality design and a sense of connection to their surroundings. They want neighborhoods that feel established, even as they are being built.
By preserving historic elements and incorporating design inspiration from some of Oklahoma City's most admired neighborhoods, Lexford Park is working to create a community that feels intentional from day one.
The restoration of the bell tower reflects that commitment. It is a reminder that great neighborhoods are often shaped by both their history and their future.
A Small Decision with a Big Impact
Paint samples may seem like a minor detail in the context of an entire development, but moments like these are often some of the most rewarding.
As homes, streetscapes, green spaces and community features continue to come together, the bell tower remains a symbol of the care being invested into every aspect of the neighborhood.
The process of selecting the right finish is about more than choosing a color. It's about ensuring that this landmark continues to have a meaningful presence within Lexford Park for generations to come.
