Frank Lloyd Wright's Unique Spring House Hits Market Near Tallahassee

Frank Lloyd Wright's Unique Spring House Hits Market Near Tallahassee

Frank Lloyd Wright’s exquisite Lewis Spring House, a gem of mid-century architecture, has recently hit the market, enticing both real estate enthusiasts and design aficionados alike. Nestled on 10 scenic acres on the outskirts of Tallahassee, Florida, this architectural marvel exhibits Wright’s late-career hemicycle style, characterized by its sweeping curves and fluid forms. Those looking to own a piece of history can find it at 3117 Okeeheepkee Rd, an address that is as charming as the house itself.

Completed in 1954, during the same creative surge that produced the iconic Guggenheim Museum, the Lewis Spring House boasts a boat-shaped layout that reflects the Lewis family’s deep appreciation for nature and water. It features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and spans a total of 2,040 square feet. With curved walls, extensive glazing, and natural materials, the design creates a seamless connection between the home and its lush surroundings. The home remains one of only 11 hemicycle-style residences designed by Wright, making it an exceptional find for those with an ear for history and a love for unique architecture. As Designboom highlights, the house employs Ocala block for its structure, paired with a warm tidewater red cypress finish.

A History of Preservation

The Lewis Spring House, also known as the Clifton and George Lewis II House, is the only private residence in Florida designed by Wright. Following her husband’s death in 1996, Clifton Lewis launched the Spring House Institute, a nonprofit with a mission to preserve this unique property. The organization’s efforts now hinge on raising $256,250 for restoration, an amount that will be matched by the Division of Historical Resources, bringing the total to $512,500. An IndieGoGo campaign has been initiated with a goal of raising $100,000 to meet the Division’s upcoming deadline of October 15th. As ArchDaily notes, the Home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, 25 years after its completion, marking it as an essential part of American architectural heritage.

Wright’s design era for the Spring House is particularly noteworthy, representing a phase that many fans of his work might overlook. The property has faced challenges over the years; both Saving Places and other advocates have raised alarms about the deteriorating state of the house. Visible damage has surfaced throughout the structure, compounded by exposure to hurricanes and wind storms. Issues like water intrusion, rotting tall cypress columns, and insect damage underscore the urgent need for repairs. In fact, the Spring House was even named to the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s list of the 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2014, a stark reminder of the fragility of architectural treasures.

The Future of the Spring House

The preservation of the Lewis Spring House holds significant potential for the Tallahassee community. If the necessary funds can be raised, the Spring House Institute plans to utilize the space for various community events that encourage engagement with the arts, environmental initiatives, and social justice. This aligns beautifully with Wright’s vision of architecture as a means to enhance the human experience, affirming that there’s something to be said for harmonizing our living spaces with our values.

As the Lewis Spring House awaits its next chapter, it serves as a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright’s enduring legacy in Florida and beyond. For those with an appreciation for history and architecture, stepping into this property is akin to walking through a living piece of art, inviting individuals to dream of the possibilities that lie within its walls. With a bit of luck and a collective effort from the community, this unique architectural treasure might just survive to inspire future generations.