The Weisblat House by Frank Lloyd Wright Lists for the Second Time Ever
Photo: Andy Schwartz - Stylish Detroit
A Frank Lloyd Wright–designed home in Galesburg, Michigan, known as the Weisblat House is on the market for the second time ever in its 77-year history. Located in the Acres, a residential plat that was laid out by Wright, the home is one of four houses designed by the American architect in the neighborhood. “It is truly a magical experience,” Brian Kirksey, the home’s listing agent, says of being inside the the property.
In 1946, a group of scientist from the Upjohn Company and their families decided to purchase land with the hopes of cooperatively building affordable houses in a rural setting, according to Michigan Modern. The friends purchased a 71-acre site in 1947 about 12 miles east of Kalamazoo and approached Wright about designing the homes. The architect agreed and visited what the group had nicknamed “The Acres” in March of the same year, later drafting plans for 21 homes on round, one-acre plots. However, only five houses were ever built, four of which being Wright’s own creations.
The Weisblat House was the first completed in the Acres, named after its original owners, David and Christine. The architect designed the residence using his “in-line” plan, in which he grouped the shared spaces, such as the living room and dining room on one side of the house and the bedrooms of the other.
Like other Wright-designed homes in the neighborhood, the Weisblat House makes use of the Wright’s concrete textile block system. However, according to Michigan Modern, the architect didn’t send any instructions on how to build this fundamental element of the home, causing confusion. “The family spent many winter evenings figuring out how to make the blocks,” the site explains.
In 1961, the Weisblats added an addition, completed by Taliesin apprentices John Howe and William Wesley Peters, as Wright had passed away two years earlier in 1959. This included a new gallery, bathroom, green house, and utility room.”
“This was my first Frank Lloyd Wright house, and I had the opportunity to work with Mrs. Weisblat before her passing [as an appraiser],” Kirksey says. “I heard all the stories about the house, Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Upjohn neighbors.” Following her passing, he worked with the Weisblat children to list and sell the home. “I worked closely with her children and heard it from their perspective. It’s a pretty special home, and I have a lot of warm feelings about my experience there over the past 25 years. I am honored to be one of the many stewards carrying it forward.”
After closing, the home’s current owner made some changes over her seven-year stewardship. “The home has been fully restored, and a few rooms, such as the primary bathroom and kitchen, have been modernized,” Kirksey says. “A new owner would not have to do much.” The residence is listed for $2.3 million and Kirksey expects there to be broad interest, perhaps even inspiring an international buyer.
Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest
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