$1.2 Million Midcentury Modern Arkansas Mansion With In-Home Spa and Sunken Conversation Pit Offers a Window to Another Time

An eye-popping midcentury modern home in Arkansas with an in-ground pool in the front yard and a lavish primary suite with exclusive spa oasis has just hit the market for $1.2 million.

Built in 1966, the four-bedroom residence in Little Rock boasts clean lines, vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and slate floors throughout its multilevel floor plan, which includes a funky sunken conversation pit in the primary living room.

The wild and very colorful design was the brainchild of theatrical stage designer Robert Barnes.

"It is a wonderful midcentury modern home that truly brings the outdoors inside," said listing agent Gina Smith of iRealty Arkansas - Little Rock.

"One of the most unusual things is the pool found in the front yard instead of the back that was designed to look like a pond or lagoon. It was even featured in Southern Living magazine."

According to the article that appeared in July 1979, when the residence was constructed, there was no level space for a pool other than the unusual location right out front—so Barnes set about creating an amenity that fit that unique space.

The entrance drive had to be relocated and the pool is now framed by a carport and the residence. To access the home, guests can either walk along the sun deck or step across a boulder that spans the pool, turning it into a kind of man-made moat that separates the home from the outside world.

"The sellers have redone the pool because it had been a while since it had major updates," Smith noted. "They completely refinished it with new tile and added new equipment."

Other highlights found throughout the 5,919-square-foot time capsule include a two-story great room with sunken conversation pit and double-sided fireplace, an updated kitchen with custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, and a cozy living room with built-in bar.

While the dwelling has been carefully updated with respect for its original design, Smith says the ideal buyer is someone who has an appreciation for its distinct architectural style.

"I think the next buyer will be someone who appreciates the style and design of the home and doesn't want to alter things," she said.

"For example, the kitchen floor is an aspect of trying to bring the outdoors in. It looks like pebbles from the pool area, but it is actually a concrete floor with pebble design. The countertops are also formed concrete."

Another jaw-dropping feature can be found in the enormous primary suite that has a fireplace, walk-in closet, and wall of glass that opens up to a private terrace overlooking the wooded backyard.

But the true jewel of this space is located in the bathroom, which features a built-in spa ideal for relaxation.

"You step down from the main level into a very large master bedroom, but the bathroom is like having your very own spa," Smith said. "There is a steam shower, whirlpool tub, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors. It also has this incredible in-floor hot tub and a dry sauna. It's like a private little oasis."

Located on a little more than a half-acre in River Ridge, the residence was also designed to feel like a modern treehouse.

"From the moment you open the front door, it's very open and you can see down to the pit area and into the kitchen and dining room that is currently being used as a TV area," she added. "You could have numerous people in different locations with lots of entertaining going on."

The outdoor pool oasis boasts a waterfall, outdoor kitchen, and firepit, ideal for large gatherings.

"It needs someone to appreciate the time period of the home as well as the entertaining aspect," she added. "It's truly a one of a kind home and unusual for Little Rock to find a home like this with a pool in front."