Ohio might not be the first place that pops into your mind when you think of architectural wonders, but guess what? It’s a hidden treasure trove of Frank Lloyd Wright masterpieces. While there are 11 houses by Frank Lloyd Wright here in Ohio, only three are open to the public.
If you’re a fan of cutting-edge design or just love to peek inside beautiful houses, these Wright homes in Ohio are calling your name. Let’s dive into where you can find them and what makes each one so special.
Westcott House
About: Step into the world of 1908, where the Westcott House stands as a beacon of Wright’s revolutionary Prairie Style. This Springfield beauty boasts the architect’s signature horizontal lines, an open floor plan, and stunning art glass windows, allowing natural light to dance through the home. The house’s restoration is a journey back in time with a modern twist, offering visitors a glimpse of Wright’s genius in integrating human habitats with nature. Don’t skip the garden or the pavilion; they’re essential chapters of the Westcott story.
Location: 1340 E High St, Springfield, OH 45505
Website: westcotthouse.org
Louis Penfield House
About: Imagine a home designed just for you. That’s what Wright did for Louis Penfield in 1955 in Willoughby Hills. The Louis Penfield House reflects Wright’s Usonian vision of affordable, yet utterly stunning homes. This structure is a harmony of cantilevered roofs and expansive windows, blurring the lines between indoors and out. Its design uniquely caters to taller individuals, with high ceilings and doorways, showcasing Wright’s attention to client needs. Bonus: You can book a stay and live the Wright way, even if just for a night.
Location: 2215 River Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Website: penfieldhouse.com
Weltzheimer/Johnson House
About: In the charming town of Oberlin, you’ll find the Weltzheimer/Johnson House, another shining example of Wright’s Usonian vision, completed in 1949. This home stands out for its bold use of brick and wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s both functional and beautiful. The house is characterized by Wright’s signature features: a flat roof, cantilevered overhangs, and clerestory windows, ensuring a flood of natural light. Its design is a testament to Wright’s belief in creating affordable homes that are in harmony with their environment. The Weltzheimer/Johnson House is now part of the Allen Memorial Art Museum of Oberlin College, and it hosts public tours that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Wright’s architectural philosophy.
Location: 534 Morgan St, Oberlin, OH 44074
Website: amam.oberlin.edu/flw-house
Ohio’s Frank Lloyd Wright homes are not just buildings; they’re experiences. Each visit tells a story of innovation, beauty, and a seamless connection with nature. From Springfield to Cincinnati, Wright’s houses stand as testaments to his architectural genius and vision.
Whether you’re exploring the Westcott House’s prairie grandeur, staying a night in the tailor-made Louis Penfield House, or marveling at the art surrounding the Weltzheimer/Johnson House, you’re walking through living history. So, next time you’re in the Buckeye State, make sure these gems are on your list. Trust us, it’s an architectural pilgrimage you won’t forget.
To learn more about other Frankl Lloyd Wright houses that are open to the public, head over to flwright.org.
