The Principal
The Principal Apartments, Dallas
Building Price Trend
The Principal Overview and Highlights
Overview
The Principal, Dallas: Living History Meets Modern Luxuries
A Historic Landmark Transformed
Located in Dallas' Old East Dallas neighborhood, The Principal offers a unique residential experience within one of the city’s oldest landmark school buildings. Originally built in 1903 as Davy Crockett Elementary, this Italian Renaissance-style icon has been thoughtfully converted into distinguished studio and one-bedroom apartments without losing its historic charm. This community stands out with soaring 14-foot ceilings, expansive original windows, broad hallways reminiscent of a “second living room,” and original hardwood floors—elements that evoke a tangible sense of Dallas history.
Exceptional Design and Architecture
Each apartment at The Principal is uniquely designed to preserve the character of the former school building. Residents can enjoy features like grand staircase entrances, exposed brick accent walls, exposed ductwork, and original basketball court hardwood flooring repurposed inside the homes. Select units offer vaulted ceilings, built-in bookshelves, walk-in closets, and quartz countertops, blending vintage elegance with modern functionality. The residence also incorporates smart-home technologies and premium stainless steel appliances alongside classic details, ensuring a rare combination of comfort and sophistication.
Modern Amenities and Community Features
The Principal offers a variety of contemporary amenities that elevate everyday life. These include:
- Controlled access and gated parking for security
- A fitness center featuring a Peloton bike to promote healthy living
- A multi-use resident lounge equipped with billiards and gaming tables
- Spacious park access right across from Buckner Park, fostering an active neighborhood lifestyle
- Bicycle storage and covered parking options
Residents also benefit from washer/dryers in each unit and digital lock and key systems for convenience and security. The community’s location is ideal for those seeking proximity to downtown Dallas, Baylor University Medical Center, the nation's largest Arts District, and popular entertainment areas such as Deep Ellum and Uptown.
Location Highlights
Situated at 401 N Carroll Avenue in the vibrant 75246 ZIP code, The Principal provides an appealing blend of historic ambiance and urban accessibility. The Old East Dallas area is known for its early 20th-century architecture, community feel, and green spaces like Klyde Warren Park nearby. The neighborhood supports an active lifestyle with tennis and basketball courts next door, hiking and biking trails along the Santa Fe Trail, and a variety of festivals and community events. Commuters appreciate the quick connections to Downtown Dallas by car or bike, with major airports Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth International easily accessible.
Final Thoughts
The Principal in Dallas offers more than just an apartment; it’s an opportunity to live inside a piece of Dallas history, thoughtfully preserved and updated with refined modern amenities. Its distinctive architecture, rich historic roots, and prime location make it a singular choice for those seeking a residential experience that marries classic charm with contemporary urban living.
Address
401 N Carroll Ave, Dallas, TX
Building Type
Rental
Year Built
1903
Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions
Location & Neighborhood
Old East Dallas

For historic and character-rich estates, head to Old East Dallas. This beautiful, well-established area affords architecturally significant estate homes as well as lively new builds with access to parks. In fact, over 125 years of construction have contributed to the eclectic mix of residences here, including Prairie styles, Craftsmans, and Colonial Revivals.
Flowering crepe myrtles, magnolias, and towering pecan trees, met by wide front porches, friendly faces, and active neighbors, who only add to the appeal, infuse the majority of the neighborhood. With its stately homes, comfortable apartments, and peaceful streets, you won’t even realize Downtown Dallas awaits mere blocks from your door.
Image credit: Matthew T Rader, via Wikimedia Commons
From The Blog
Disclaimer
Pricing, availability, and concessions are subject to change at any time and without notice. Photos may be of various model units and apartment availability and lease terms may vary. Information is believed to be accurate, however is subject to errors and omissions. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals.