Issue 370  August 9th 2023

Unity Temple Exterior Doors Restored

Unity Temple Restoration Foundation (UTRF) in Oak Park, IL is excited to share the news that it has received a grant from the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, George Rogers Clark Chapter, to help fund the restoration of the exterior wood doors of Unity Temple. The DAR Historic Preservation Grants provide financial assistance for projects that preserve historic objects and sites. UTRF was one of 33 grantees for the 2023-2024 cycle to receive support.

This award comes at a critical time in UTRF's efforts to prioritize preventative maintenance of this National Historic Landmark.

"Our work is not over," says UTRF Executive Director, Heidi Ruehle. "A historic building such as Unity Temple requires tens of thousands of dollars per year just to keep it properly maintained and prevent significant deterioration of materials and systems."

Unity Temple underwent a comprehensive, $25 million restoration project from 2015-2017. Six years later the building is showing signs of wear and tear from human use and effects of the elements. The exterior doors face both east and west and are exposed to the harsh effects of the sun and required a good deal of work to bring them back to life.

UTRF is grateful for the support of the George Rogers Clark Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, for their financial sponsorship, and to the crew at Von Dreele-Freerksen Construction Co. for their impeccable work and continual adherence to historic preservation principles.

Plan a visit to see them (and the rest of this iconic building) in person!

Click for more details: flwunitytemple.org  

Dow Designed Home In Michigan Is A MCM Dream Come True

A beautifully crafted, Alden B. Dow designed home tucked away on nearly 2 wooded acres in the heart of Midland, MI has listed for $1.3 million. Located minutes away from downtown shopping and restaurants the home's Zillow listing states, "This exceptional home is not only a testament to visionary design but also offers the rare combination of tranquil natural surroundings and unbeatable urban convenience, being mere steps away from the hospital and all the amenities of city living."

Son of Dow Chemical founder Herbert Dow, Alden Dow grew up in Midland and is credited with contributing to the Michigan Modern style. Following a brief internship with Frank Lloyd Wright, Dow went on to design, "more than 70 residences and dozens of churches, schools, civic and art centers, and commercial buildings during his 30+ year career."

Built in in 1951, the home has 2 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, and much, much more.

Click for more details: thegame730am.com  

A Closer Look At Lloyd Wright's Emanuel Gainsburg Residence

In the serene San Gabriel foothills, CA, there is a gorgeous late 1940s Modern property waiting for its new owner. Built in 1948 by Lloyd Wright, The Emanuel Gainsburg Residence features a combination of horizontal lines, concrete walls, glass panels, and distinctive roof lines. Surrounded by a tranquil landscape with native plants and trees, the property includes a peaceful water garden that attracts birds and dragonflies.

Outside, the property hosts a patio with diagonally scored concrete and a built-in barbecue, providing ample space for outdoor gatherings. The lush yard creates a connection to nature, offering a tranquil and inviting environment. The structure was renovated, preserving its historic charm while incorporating modern amenities. Today, the house is listed by Sotheby’s International Realty and hits the market for $2.9M.

The home, by Frank Lloyd Wright Jr., is designed to welcome natural light, with generous glazing that frames picturesque views and seamlessly connects the indoors with the lush outdoors. Regarding the interior, an open floor plan with angled forms is divided into three zones: the living space, kitchen-dining area, and the bedroom wing. The hexagonal living room is spacious, with an asymmetric fireplace and walls of glass overlooking the garden.

The kitchen features black walnut cabinetry, stainless steel countertops, a center island, and a 6-burner Viking Range. A small library with a built-in couch and bookshelves form a cozy escape for book lovers. The primary bedroom suite offers comfort and tranquility, with a walk-through closet, an en-suite bath with dual sinks, a separate tub, and a shower, as well as a sitting room with a fireplace for added relaxation.

Click for more details: designboom.com  

2023 Wright Spirit Award Honorees

The Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy announces the 2023 recipients of the Wright Spirit Award, which recognizes owners and stewards of Wright buildings and others who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to preserving and restoring the remaining built works designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and enhancing appreciation of Wright’s legacy.

Private Category

Mark Donovan and Mary Ludgin Owners, Goodrich House, Oak Park, Illinois for the restoration of the Goodrich House in Oak Park, Illinois

Professional Category

Linda Eales for guiding the transition of Samara, the John and Katherine Christian House in West Lafayette, Indiana, from private home to public site

Jonathan Leck for his preservation work and craftsmanship in the restoration of a dozen Frank Lloyd Wright buildings

Keiran Murphy for her in-depth research on the work of Frank Lloyd Wright

Mary Roberts for shepherding the $50 million restoration of the Martin House in Buffalo, New York

Special Honors

Judy and Dick Corson for their generous support to initiate the inscription of eight Wright buildings on the UNESCO World Heritage List

This year’s Wright Spirit Awards will be presented during the Conservancy’s annual conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The awards ceremony, underwritten by Ron and Jan Scherubel, will take place during the gala on the evening of Saturday, September 30. The gala is included in general conference registration and is available as an a la carte event as well.

Click for more details: savewright.org