Frank Lloyd Wright: The Masterworks by Pfeiffer, Bruce Brooks(September 15, 1993) Hardcover

by Bruce Brooks Pfeiffer

This extraordinary book presents thirty-eight of the most renowned and significant buildings of America's premier architect, from his early Prairie work in Oak Park, Illinois, in the 1890s to his daring creations of the 1940s and 1950s.In entirely new photographs taken especially for this book by two leading architectural photographers under the direction of co-editor David Larkin, such internationally famous buildings as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Fallingwater and Wright's homes Taliesin, Taliesin West, and the Oak Park Home and Studio are seen afresh, benefiting from the photographers' special access.Several lesser-known residences, such as Auldbrass Plantation in South Carolina, an array of wooden buildings that is Wright's American alternative to antebellum architecture, the William H. Winslow house in River Forest, Illinois, one of the architect's earliest and most surprisingly decorative houses, and the Kenneth Laurent house in Rockford, Illinois, a masterful curvilinear design, are seen in full color and demonstrate dimensions of Wright's work less often seen before. Public buildings, such as the dramatic concrete, glass, and steel Marin County Civic Center and Beth Sholom Synagogue show Wright as engineering virtuoso as well as creative architect. In addition to these existing masterworks, only the most famous of which are open to the public, the book covers buildings that have been demolished, notably the Larkin Company Administration Building, Midway Gardens, and the Imperial Hotel, which are represented here by drawings and rich archival photographs.Each of the buildings is presented from conceptual sketch, plan, or drawing to finishedmasterwork, and each is accompanied by an in-depth essay detailing the development of the work. Extensive quotes from Wright's writings, unpublished talks, and private letters to the clients give valuable insight into the architect's own thinking about each commission. Never before has Wright's architecture been presented so elaborately in one volume.

Genres: Architecture, Art, Nonfiction, Photography, Design, Reference

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Scott Holstad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very, very recommended from an admittedly biased fan, but one who has had the opportunity to spend time in quite a few of the master’s houses, including some here, so for those inclined toward FLW, definitely recommended.

[Fangyuan Ren · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite Architect, FLLW was so far ahead of his time, it fun looking through the pictures and reading the stories behind the beautiful homes he built. Meanwhile imagining what my dream home would look like. Thousands of homes he built, they are all one of a kind, the world needs more creative artists like him. Super excited to visit his Hollyhock house in a couple weeks.

[Bruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good supplemental resource for fans of FLW. If you already have some of the more essential resources on his architectural styles and personal history, you may find some of the content redundant.

Nice photography and historical notes.

[Julia Fedorova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intimate insights into the architectural philosophy of the great architect.

[Rene Cizio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such genius. I don’t understand why the world hasn’t adapted more of his ideas.

[Babs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book showcasing Wright's work. Found it a great primer before a visit to Taliesin West.

[Jeffrey (Akiva) Savett · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic and inspiring. His concept of organic architecture is fascinating and the pictures in this book are gorgeous.

[Washingtonmaid]

Not alot of new information but great pictures

[Athena · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading "Loving Frank" I was left wanting to know more about his less popular works.