Living In A Frank Lloyd Wright House: The Good, Bad (and Ugly!)

American architect Frank Lloyd Wright was certainly a man of superlatives - America’s greatest architect, the country’s most controversial builder, the most avant-garde 20th century interior designer - the list goes on.

When thinking of an individual with such astounding creative importance, you might be tempted to ask -

“What does it feel to live in a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece?"

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History of Hamptons Architecture: From "Shingle Style" To Mega Mansions:    • History of Hamptons Architecture: Fro...  

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TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Introduction
1:14 1. You Change Your Life To Fit The Frank Lloyd Wright House
3:35 2. Pressure To “Live Up” To The Frank Lloyd Wright House’s Reputation
5:55 3. Sometimes It Actually Hard To Sell Frank Lloyd Wright Houses
8:30 4. Getting “Spiritual Reaction” As If You’re Talking With God

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Living in a Frank Lloyd Wright house is more than just residing in a place with unique architecture; it's about embracing an unparalleled lifestyle that epitomizes the philosophy of one of America's most avant-garde architects.

In the tranquil embrace of Wilmette, Illinois, lies the Frank J. Baker house, where future owner Eric Bauer instantly felt a connection, once stating, "I walked into the living room, and I said to my wife, 'I could see myself dying here.'" These words capture the essence of what it means to live in a Frank Lloyd Wright creation.

Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture is legendary, influencing designs across the globe. Known for innovative and controversial mansions, such as the iconic Fallingwater, Wright's approach extends beyond traditional architectural norms, reshaping the way we connect with our surroundings.

Inhabiting a Wright-designed house demands adapting to the space and its ethos, such as recalibrating one's life to match the home's distinctive style. Owners have found themselves altering daily routines to synchronize with the home's unique character. Doug LaBrecque, the owner of a Wright-designed Curtis and Lillian Meyer House, encapsulates this, remarking, "The house sort of tells you how to live. I live differently when I'm there."

Alongside the pleasure of living in such an environment, the responsibility of being a steward for a piece of architectural history brings its own set of challenges. Restoration, renovation, and the balance of privacy with public interest become daily negotiations, as Wright's architectural masterpieces are often the focus of academics and enthusiasts alike. Homeowners are burdened with the weight of expectations and the fear of tarnishing the original design.

Surprisingly, owning a Frank Lloyd Wright house doesn't necessarily translate to an easy sell. Despite being rare architectural marvels, these homes often remain on the market for extended periods. The reasons are multifaceted, ranging from the maintenance challenges of intricate features like stained glass and stonework to the often stringent regulations protecting the homes' historical authenticity.

But the journey of living in a Frank Lloyd Wright house transcends the physical and taps into the spiritual. The unique blend of natural materials and meticulously planned designs can evoke profound emotions, almost akin to a dialogue with a higher entity. The interconnectedness of form and function in a spiritual union can result in experiences that are both serene and transcendental.

One owner, Dale Morgan, recalls a neighbor's emotional reaction to a room, saying, "She said it was the most beautiful space she'd ever seen." This poignant response illustrates the profound influence of living in a Frank Lloyd Wright house, reflecting not just an architectural marvel but a life-altering experience.

In sum, living in a Frank Lloyd Wright house is a multifaceted journey that encompasses embracing unique rhythms of life, fulfilling the role of architectural steward, navigating the complexities of owning an iconic landmark, and being open to spiritual reactions that may very well feel like communing with the divine. Whether you are an architectural enthusiast or someone captivated by Wright's vision, living in one of his masterpieces offers an insight into an existence marked by elegance, complexity, and a profound connection to nature.