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Hickok Homes is a branch of the historic Hickok-Dible , a real estate company that has been shaping the Kansas City metro area since its founding in 1904 by Napoleon Dible . Known for his iconic Dible Tudor homes and the development of the south side of Ward Parkway , Dible ’ s legacy continues under the leadership of James Hickok , Hickok Homes President and a fifth-generation family member . With a passion for designing bespoke singlefamily homes , James is carrying forward a century-long tradition of innovation .
Reflecting on the company ’ s storied past , James shares , “ My great-greatgrandfather , Napoleon Dible , built around 4,000 homes in Kansas City and was integral to the development of Ward Parkway . Each generation has built on that legacy . My father , for instance , constructed over 1,000 apartments , including several major complexes .”
A vision for unique design
Today , James spearheads Hickok Homes ’ design efforts , setting the company apart in the competitive market . A licensed interior designer with over a decade of experience , James personally oversees every project , partnering with trusted architects , contractors , and suppliers to ensure exceptional quality . “ I design everything myself ,” James explains . “ Over the years , I ’ ve learned what works and what doesn ’ t . My approach emphasizes warmth and personality , especially in modern styles that can sometimes feel sterile . I focus on materials like white oak cabinetry for its durability and aesthetic appeal , and I avoid using real wood on exteriors because it ’ s not suitable for the Midwest climate .”
This meticulous attention to detail is evident in projects like the home on the Artisan Tour , where Hickok Homes used high-end materials such as Millboard decking and incorporated standout features including hidden doors , curved showers , and architectural lighting that creates unique shadow patterns .
The Artisan Tour and beyond
The Artisan Tour provided a significant boost for Hickok Homes . Over six days , more than 2000 visitors experienced the company ’ s craftsmanship firsthand . The response was overwhelmingly positive , generating a surge of interest and securing several new projects .
James reflects on the tour ’ s impact : “ It was a huge moment for us . The exposure brought in so many exciting opportunities . It also gave us a platform to showcase useful innovative features like laundry rooms connected to primary closets , pre-wired elevator shafts , and smart plumbing systems controllable via phone .”
The outdoor designs also stand out , with
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