The architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright is distinctive in its modern brilliance. What many people do not realize is that there are three dozen buildings he designed on the US West Coast, from Southern California to Seattle, because there is very little documentation of this work. Here are some interesting facts about him and his famous buildings.
1. Not Just an Architect
Frank Lloyd Wright actually worked two jobs consistently over the course of his life. Many people know him for his architecture, but don’t know that he was also a world-renown dealer of Japanese artwork. When he passed away at the age of 91, there were more than 7,000 pieces he had gathered for his personal collection.
2. A Maintenance Nightmare
There are a lot of negative things said about Wright’s architecture and with some justification. Many of his designs would leak because of their flat surfaces. Door frames were often built too small to place furniture into a room. When someone once called Wright to complain about water leaking on their head while they sat at a dinner party, the architect simply suggested that the individual move their chair.
3. The Volkswagen of Homes
Frank Lloyd Wright envisioned a future where every family would be able to own their own home. The idea he had was to create an architectural footprint that could be designed on a budget, but still be functional to their needs. No attics, no basements, and large overhangs helped to reduce building and heating costs.
4. A Love For the Country
Wright hated urban areas. He particularly hated spending time in New York City. He often described cities as being parasites. Despite this fact, he still designed the Guggenheim Museum in NYC and it would go on to become one of his most famous works. It was completed 6 months after his death.
5. He Wasn’t Always Rich
A hired servant of Wright’s went on a murderous rampage at his home in Spring Green, WI in 1914. Murdered were 4 of his apprentices, his live-in partner Mamah Cheney, and her two children. His home was then burnt down, which was followed by a second destructive fire in 1925, and this drove Wright into bankruptcy.
Frank Lloyd Wright is famous for his designs, his personality, and his stubbornness to experiment at all costs. That is often why he is one of the world’s most beloved architects to this day.
