As one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright remain highly coveted by those with an eye for design, as residences that are as livable as they are beautiful. One Frank Lloyd Wright-designed New York property just half an hour from Manhattan has hit the market, as an immaculately preserved example of the architect’s Usonian-style dwellings tucked away on a two-and-a-half acre block within Clausland Mountain Park.
Previously known as the Socrates Zaferiou House after its original owner, construction of the residence was completed in 1961, just a couple of years after Wright passed away at the age of 89. As one of nine prefab homes that Wright designed during the 50s, the final years of the construction were overseen by a project architect for the Guggenheim Museum who saw the property to completion before it was handed over to Zaferiou, who went on to live in the house for more than half a century.
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It remained the property of Zaferiou until 2014 when it was sold to Sarah Anderson-Magness of Studio Magness. The home is distinctly a Wright creation, featuring a number of his signature motifs including a flat roof, mahogany panelling throughout the interior and an intimate connection to the natural landscape around it.
“The preservation Socrates gave to the house was so meticulous,” Anderson-Magness explained to Bloomberg. “I have all the original drawings for the house. They have site-visit notes on the drawings with modifications that have to be made.”
Unusually for Wright-designed homes, the 2,619-square-foot residence also features high ceilings, a walk-out basement and an additional bedroom. None of these features was found in Wright’s original plans for the home, however, were constructed at the wishes of Zaferiou who after two years of seeking Wright’s approval for the alterations, received a blessing from the famed architect.
“I’m in a place where I want to be able to contribute my expertise to another place and enjoy it with my family,” Anderson-Magness added. “I think that’s what a true preservationist is: We see and take what we’re given, and then try to implement the original intent. There’s a history and a story to maintain.”
Despite its historical significance and proximity to New York City, the property has been listed by Sotheby’s International Realty with an asking price of just US$1,525,000 (AU$2,419,194). When you consider what you can find in Sydney for the same money, it might be time to make a move Stateside.
