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PrintDwell: The View From 'The Hill'
Dr. G. David and Jane Gearhart live on some of the most highly-coveted property in all of Fayetteville … essentially the crest of “The Hill,” overlooking the beautiful University of Arkansas and Reynold’s Stadium.
In the entry of the home, the reception rotunda immediately captures the eye, with an elegant black and white tiled marble floor and a curving staircase leading to the second-level landing. The circular, second-level balcony overlooks the rotunda, opening the space. “This is the primary entertaining venue in the home, accommodating up to 250 guests. We have held a concert by internationally-renowned pianist Jura Margulis, as well as hosted music by a symphony in here,” Mrs. Gearhart said.
photography provided by the University of Arkansas
Located within view of the football stadium and a short walk from the heart of the University of Arkansas campus, The Fowler House is the perfect place for Chancellor David and wife Jane Gearheart.
The Gearharts moved into the beautiful home when the chancellor accepted his position — and the home was completed — three years ago. Their home is officially named The Wallace W. and Jama M. Fowler House after the privately-funded structure’s generous, Jonesboro-based primary donors who gave $1.75 million to the project in addition to other private donors’ in-kind gifts including furnishing and décor.
The Fowler House — four bedrooms and 9,200 square feet — not only serves as the Gearharts’ residence, but also as an elegant event facility, where the couple hosts countless university fundraisers and dinners. Chancellor Gearhart frequently entertains alumni and friends, fac
ulty, staff and students, as well as government officials, foreign dignitaries and corporate executives. During their first year of residence, the Gearharts hosted approximately 4,000 guests at more than 70 university events.
Construction contractor Flintco Inc., received two industry awards for its work on The Fowler House; and the breathtaking interior was arranged by celebrated Little Rock designer Judy Snowden. The home is versatile, as its elegance lends itself as the perfect setting for formal occasions, yet retains its cozy comfort as a home that is well lived in and enjoyed by those who dwell there.
During a tour of the home, Mrs. Gearhart cited one of her favorite events at the home is grilling out in the yard with her children and grandchildren, and relaxing in the family room watching Razorback games with her husband and friends.
Thought of as a “front door to the university,” the Fowler House is a place for Chancellor Gearhart and wife, Jane to not only reside, but also welcome guests to the university and host many of the school’s events and fundraisers.
The living room is a cozy escape for the Gearharts, with a comfortable overstuffed sofa and leather club chairs perfect for curling up with a good book from the extensive collection from their library. Art collecting is a growing hobby for Mrs. Gearhart; one piece prominently displayed is a painting by Fayetteville artist Donald Roller Wilson.
The patio room is the ideal setting for an intimate breakfast nook, and also where Mrs. Gearhart enjoys lounging and reading in her spare time.
The formal dining room is the perfect, elegant place to entertain. “This room seats up to 14,” Gearhart said. “We have lots of dinner parties here, but they aren’t just for donors and alumni, we love to regularly host groups of students.”
