When we think about Frank Lloyd Wright, what often comes to mind is his use of natural materials in geometric shapes, stylized details fashioned in horizontal lines, cantilever roofs that seem to float in space and the use of art glass as light screens.
And for one couple in Rockford, Ill. who contacted Wright in 1948, they got what they wanted from Mr. Wright : cypress interiors, large expanses of glass, built-in furnishings plus one important added detail on found in this Wright residence: a home that would accommodate the couple so they might age in place.
And so for Ken Laurent, a paraplegic and his wife Phyllis, they have aged in place in this beautiful place for some 57 years.
The Laurents have had the opportunity to be the occupants and caregivers for this Wright home since they started building it in 1951. What a treasure for them. The house is one of Wright’s Usonian (or no-frills) homes and the only home the world-famous architect designed for a person in a wheelchair.
In addition to all the other standard elements of a Wright-designed building, the Laurents also got a home that was built on a single level, one with wider doors, a flowing but deep loggia and a master bedroom that is larger than most Wright bedrooms.
The couple has lovingly cared for this home but at 90, it is time for the couple to move to a place where they can receive the kind of assistance they need at this time of their life. So the house went up for sale at $875,000 early this year.
And for one couple in Rockford, Ill. who contacted Wright in 1948, they got what they wanted from Mr. Wright : cypress interiors, large expanses of glass, built-in furnishings plus one important added detail on found in this Wright residence: a home that would accommodate the couple so they might age in place.
And so for Ken Laurent, a paraplegic and his wife Phyllis, they have aged in place in this beautiful place for some 57 years.
The Laurents have had the opportunity to be the occupants and caregivers for this Wright home since they started building it in 1951. What a treasure for them. The house is one of Wright’s Usonian (or no-frills) homes and the only home the world-famous architect designed for a person in a wheelchair.
In addition to all the other standard elements of a Wright-designed building, the Laurents also got a home that was built on a single level, one with wider doors, a flowing but deep loggia and a master bedroom that is larger than most Wright bedrooms.
The couple has lovingly cared for this home but at 90, it is time for the couple to move to a place where they can receive the kind of assistance they need at this time of their life. So the house went up for sale at $875,000 early this year.
But even though there was a lot of special interest from architecture fans and from Wright enthusiasts all over, the home sold this week in an online auction for $578,000 to a preservation group that will convert it into a museum. Wright once called it one of his favorites; he even tried to hire away the Rockford-based general contractor.
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