Today we’d like to introduce you to Bruce Levinson.
Bruce, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Bell House’s roots date back to 1946, when the property was first platted and a modest two-bedroom home was constructed. Over the years, it transformed from a family home into a drive-through snow cone shop. Later, the Levinsons learned that the larger addition housed a TV repair business, a porch swing shop, and a floral shop, before the property became the longtime home of the Wimberley Village Thrift Store. When the thrift store outgrew the space, it relocated a few doors down, leaving the building ready for its next chapter. Bruce and Tracy chose to name their dream project The Bell House in homage to Tracy’s maiden name.
The Levinsons were determined to honor the building’s history while reimagining the space. In February 2019, the property was taken down to the studs, marking the beginning of a 15-month renovation. They aimed to preserve the home’s original elements while infusing it with new life. Today, the Bell House is a delightful blend of old and new, featuring carefully curated details and a palpable sense of joy as soon as one walks through the door. It is an event space that serves groups of 45 or fewer, hosting weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid luncheons, corporate meetings, and cooking classes.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
But the journey to transforming The Bell House wasn’t without challenges. During the initial stages of the renovations, in early 2019, they learned that Bruce had been diagnosed with Stage 3C cancer. Instead of returning to the DFW area and their established doctors and support system, they sought treatment at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Tracy traveled back and forth while the renovations continued. “It was a challenging time,” they admit. “But we began developing relationships with many amazing new Wimberley friends and neighbors who helped pull us through.”
Through prayer, perseverance, skilled doctors, and the support of their new community, Bruce recovered. When they finally moved into their finished home in May 2020, during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was a celebration of resilience, love, and new beginnings.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Tracy’s professional journey began in theatrical design at both the University of Texas (undergraduate) and the University of Houston (master’s) before blossoming into a career in interior design, transforming homes and workspaces. Her warmth and hospitality match her innate ability to see the hidden potential in spaces. “God has given me the ability to see what things could be,” she says. “My intention is always to fulfill the highest potential of a space. I love making spaces beautiful, cohesive, timeless, and effortlessly livable.” Tracy’s eye for detail is evident throughout The Bell House, from the curated plate wall in the main gathering space to the lush gardens she designed with a local carpenter, turning former parking lots into thriving beds of tomatoes, herbs, and watermelons.
Beyond design, Tracy is a passionate foodie and a WSET Sommelier, creating memorable farm-to-table experiences for guests and friends alike. Their love for bringing people together around great food and wine is central to the couple’s vision for The Bell House.
Bruce proudly touts his love for his alma mater, Michigan State University, where he earned a business degree in the early 1980s. Later in their marriage, he enjoyed a colorful career that included sportscasting and ultimately a 30-year tenure as a TV executive with companies such as NBCUniversal, Bravo/The Independent Film Channel, Fox Sports Net Southwest, and E.W. Scripps. Recently, Bruce fulfilled another dream: in May 2025, he completed a master’s degree in mass communication from Texas State University, qualifying him to share his extensive media experience with college students. He now teaches undergraduates in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Be willing to work for free or next to nothing to gain experience and build rapport and trust with the employer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thebellhousewimberley.com/
- Instagram: @thebellhousewimberley
- Facebook: @thebellhousewimberley
Image Credits
Yvette Foster
Brittany Rhodenbaugh
