Iconic Frank Lloyd Wright Home Listed for $350,000
The Walser House, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is now for sale for $350,000. This iconic structure, located in Austin, Illinois, stands as a testament to Wright’s innovative design philosophy. Despite its architectural significance, the home has faced deterioration over the past two decades and is currently uninhabitable.
Noteworthy Details About the Walser House
The Federal National Mortgage Association, commonly known as Fannie Mae, recently listed the property after acquiring it through a court-ordered foreclosure sale in December. Barbara Gordon, executive director of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, expressed optimism regarding the property’s new status, which she believes offers potential buyers a clear path to ownership.
Historical and Architectural Significance
- Constructed in 1903 for Joseph Jacob Walser, a printing executive.
- Incorporates architectural elements that influenced Wright’s later works.
- The home features prominent horizontal lines, overhanging eaves, and a distinctive band of windows on the second story.
Wright used similar characteristics in his later projects, including the Emil Bach House and the K.C. DeRhodes House. Additionally, the Walser House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized as an official Chicago landmark.
Challenges in Restoration
The home, however, requires extensive restoration, with estimated costs exceeding $2 million. A recent appraisal valued the house at only $65,000, raising concerns among potential buyers about the financial viability of the project.
- Cost of restoration: $2 million+
- Current appraisal value: $65,000
Any prospective owner will also need to adhere to strict guidelines to preserve the home’s original design. Gordon emphasized the significance of maintaining the home’s historical integrity during restoration efforts.
Community Advocacy and Future Prospects
Since 2020, several organizations, including Preservation Chicago and Austin Coming Together, have collaborated to save the Walser House. Darnell Shields, executive director of Austin Coming Together, has been particularly vocal about the need for community-focused development of the property.
Shields expressed disappointment at the initial listing price, considering it higher than the current market value. He advocates for transforming the house into a community resource, similar to the nearby Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation, which was developed with raised funds exceeding $40 million.
Despite the challenges ahead, the Walser House represents an essential piece of architectural history. For those interested in preserving Wright’s legacy, this may be a rare opportunity to invest in a significant landmark.
