Planning commission designates 1403 Bridal Drive a local historic landmark

The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously April 8 to approve a local historic landmark designation for the midcentury home at 1403 Bridal (also referenced as Kendolph Drive). Cameron Robertson, the city’s historic preservation officer, told the commission the property — designed by Mount Miller circa 1959 and associated with Dr. Hiram J. Friedman — meets several criteria in the Denton Development Code (including architectural distinction and association with a person of local significance).

Robertson said the house exemplifies midcentury modern features recognized in the Denia neighborhood and noted the property has been included in local walking tours. The Historic Landmark Commission previously recommended the designation 7–0. Robertson said the designation does not itself create an automatic city tax exemption; property owners who wish to pursue a local tax exemption must later submit documentation (including proof of at least $10,000 in qualifying improvements) to staff and then to HLC and city council for separate approval.

Commissioners asked about fiscal impacts and whether short‑term rental status matters for designation; Robertson said the local designation focuses on the structure and its merit under DDC §2.9.0.4b and that the property had been used as a rental and previously as a short‑term rental. The commission voted 6–0 to recommend the designation; the item goes to City Council on April 21, 2026.