It is a testament to the prescience and inherent genius of American architect Frank Lloyd Wright that only about half of his designs were realized—the rest of us just couldn’t keep up. In a career spanning seven decades, Wright designed 1,114 works of which only 532 came to fruition, but that half-told history was more than enough to inspire the generations of architects and designers that followed. Like Wright, the designers of these modern marvels have embraced change, building new contemporary masterpieces that allow their inhabitants to live as Wright intended; “We are all here to develop a life more beautiful, more concordant, more fully expressive of our own sense of pride and joy than ever before in the world.” These listings take cues from one of the greatest architects in history.
Vito Dumas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Vivi Reissis Etchegoin – Ginevra Sotheby’s International Realty
Step into an inviting contemporary interior inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater house. Designed and built in 1963, this property is a work of art in its own right. Walnut trees and lianas line the property, while four floors—connected through an interior lift—work with the slope of the surrounding ravine. Patio-style dining, exposed brick interiors, and nods to Bauhaus in every direction make this residence a design dream.
Jupiter, Florida, United States
Doc Ellingson – ONE Sotheby’s International Realty
Additional Fallingwater inspiration can be found in this South Florida home. The pairing of considered exterior landscaping with an overall dedication to natural materials harkens back to Wright’s love of organic architecture. Warm wood softens the sharp angles that give this 2015 build a decidedly current feel, while the interiors offer all the expected amenities plus a two-story master enclave that features two private patios, an office, hot tub, and, in true Floridian fashion, a putting green.
Telluride, Colorado, United States
Bill Fandel – Telluride Sotheby’s International Realty
Tiered roofing, sprawling outdoor space, and a remarkable mountain setting create spectacular allure on a small corner of this 35-acre site. Natural finishings catch the spotlight in this Telluride home, including custom-quarried marble from Italy, limestone from India, and rock sourced from the surrounding area. Through crystalline glass windows, elegant fittings and top-of-the-line materials sing throughout each room, which comprise six bedrooms, indoor and outdoor home spas, a theater room, wine room, fitness center, and chef-approved kitchen.
Prague, Czech Republic
Czech Republic Sotheby’s International Realty
The stacked exterior form of this Hanspaulka gem definitely hits Wright’s notion of organic-meets-functionalist architecture. Aptly named Vila Vista, this home’s five floors angle out over beautiful park gardens, views of Prague Castle, and the city skyline. Inside, the 1,500-square-meter, open-concept design is so well done that everything from the six bedrooms to the home cinema and catering kitchen feels completely connected.
Scottsdale, Arizona, United States
Debbie Negrin & Will Foote – Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
Wright’s trademark angles get a desert spin in this Scottsdale home, where the lavish outdoor living spaces are as inviting as the interior. Inside, doorways and windows frame the natural landscape at every turn, and dry stack stone walls mirror the region’s naturally-occurring rock formations. There is plenty for the eye to play with here, including views of Pinnacle Peak from the relaxing heated pool.
As Wright once said, “The mission of an architect is to help people understand how to make life more beautiful, the world a better one for living in, and to give reason, rhyme, and meaning to life.” Certainly, these inspired designs do just that.
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