Issue 330  November 2nd 2022

7 Architecturally Significant Vacation Rentals You Need To Book

Architecture is a substantial part of American history as it marks eras and styles. Although many cities offer tours of architecturally significant buildings, Apartment Therapy suggests that the next time you travel, make plans to stay in one. Even if you haven’t heard of a particular designer before, there are plenty of beautiful structural masterpieces that you can make yours for a night or even a week long stay.

"From a modest Frank Lloyd Wright home tucked into the woods to a parkside dwelling reminiscent of a UFO, this list encompasses several design styles at different price points. So whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply want a unique place to rest your head, here are seven fantastic vacation rentals to book stat."

Of course, our favorite is the Seth Peterson Cottage in Wisconsin.

"Not only was the Seth Peterson Cottage the first Frank Lloyd Wright home opened for public overnight rental, but it sits on Mirror Lake in Wisconsin, making it perfect if you want to combine architecture appreciation with nature. At only 880 square feet, it was Wright’s last project in Wisconsin and one he completed while in his 90s. Although tiny, the home features exposed brick, wood features, and sharp angles, all earmarks of homes designed by Wright. It also sits within a state park where you can participate in four seasons of fun, from skiing to swimming." Check out the entire list here.

Click for more details: apartmenttherapy.com  

In-Depth Review Of The Bungalows By Homestead Modern

Mae Hamilton, assistant editor at AFAR, took a trip to The Bungalows, a recently revamped midcentury modern hotel with 14 suites spread out over three buildings, locally owned and managed by Homestead Modern, a short-term vacation rental company that entered the hotel business with this flagship property.

The Bungalows opened to guests in June 2022 and is set within the sprawling 130-acre campus of the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, aka the Institute of Mentalphysics, a spiritual center inspired by East Asian philosophy, established in 1946 and dedicated to improving one’s physical and mental well-being. All buildings on the campus were designed by the Southern Californian architect Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright. The retreat is home to the world’s largest collection of Lloyd Wright buildings. Read about her experience by clicking here.

Click for more details: afar.com  

The Controversial Philippine Mahogany Inside Wright’s Usonians

Frank Lloyd Wright is famous for designing hundreds of structures that feature different architectural concepts throughout his career that lasted seven decades. One of which is the Usonian home.

One famous type of Usonian residences were the Usonian Automatic Houses, including the Kalil House in Manchester, New Hampshire. It is one of the seven Usonian Automatic houses that Frank has designed. 350 windows framed by concrete make the house’s majestic lounge. It allows natural light to pour in and create warmth in a rather concrete structure.

One distinct detail inside the Kalil house is the use of Philippine Mahogany panels. It lines the walls of the lounge area and the hallway. It then continues into the bedroom and the bathroom. One cannot argue that the wood cladding on the walls added to the overall timeless aesthetic of the house.

The Philippine Mahogany however has its share of controversy. Much has been written that it is not true mahogany. According to an article by F. Bruce Lamb, “serious controversy over the name mahogany did not arise until the early 1900s. At this time Philippine woods began to enter the American market and the name Philippine mahogany was used as a promotional ploy…” Read more here.

Click for more details: onemega.com