Architecture Wednesday: FLW’s Westhope

Yes, I see it; it looks a little utilitarian, like a schoolhouse or hospital wing or library, but this is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westhope home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and might be the most significant property to become available in this generation; it has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972.

In every project Wright undertook, the goal of enhancing and elevating the human experience was always foremost in FLW’S mind. Westhope was constructed in 1929—and is just one of three Wright-designed structures in Oklahoma and is that rare jewel being one of the largest residences Wright ever built.

It was built with alternating piers of square glass windows and cement “textile” blocks and featured Wright’s nature-inspired “organic architecture” ethos, furniture, built-in cabinets, and drawers at the home are all constructed of similar wood, achieving the visual and spatial harmony for which his signature aesthetic is known. I also love that it is a light-filled home, as Wright switched from his dark woods and ceilings approach. There are 5,200 glass panes arranged in pillar-like forms, creating a vertical pattern streaming pretty natural light into the interior while keeping all who enter visually connected to the ever-changing landscape.

The home’s distinctly public and private spaces make it perfect for entertaining and eminently livable. At slightly more than 10,000 square feet—yes it’s enormous and what would I do with all that space—with five bedrooms, four-and-one-half bathrooms and a very large reception area which flows into the dining room, and then to an enormous great room, as well as massive sunroom with views to the courtyard, the pool and the gardens.

My one quibble? The bathrooms need to be modernized a bit, though I do love that blue tile. And while the kitchen isn’t as open as I might like, once again it’s a massive space so the party can be held in that one room if necessary.

The home recently sold for nearly $5 million and I think that was a bargain.

Dwell