About Falling water
Fallingwater: A National Treasure Preserved for Generations to Come
Fallingwater is a masterpiece of modern architecture that has captured the hearts and minds of people all over the world. Designed by America's most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater is a stunning example of organic architecture that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. Built in 1935 for the Kaufmann family, Fallingwater has become an iconic symbol of American design and innovation.
Located in Western Pennsylvania, Fallingwater is a National Historic Landmark that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is entrusted with preserving this national treasure for generations to come. With its unique design and breathtaking views, Fallingwater continues to inspire architects and designers around the world.
The History of Fallingwater
Fallingwater was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935 for Edgar J. Kaufmann Sr., his wife Liliane, and their son Edgar Jr. The Kaufmanns were wealthy department store owners from Pittsburgh who wanted a weekend retreat in the countryside. They chose a site along Bear Run Creek in Western Pennsylvania where they had often gone on picnics.
Wright visited the site several times before he began designing the house. He was inspired by the natural beauty of the area and wanted to create a house that would blend seamlessly with its surroundings. He also wanted to incorporate elements from Japanese architecture such as open floor plans, sliding doors, and low-pitched roofs.
Construction on Fallingwater began in 1936 and was completed two years later at a cost of $155,000 (equivalent to $2 million today). The house features cantilevered balconies that jut out over Bear Run Creek giving visitors an unparalleled view of nature.
Fallingwater became instantly famous when it was featured on the cover of Time magazine in 1938. It has since been recognized as one of Wright's greatest works and has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Preserving Fallingwater for Future Generations
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is entrusted with preserving Fallingwater for future generations. The organization was founded in 1932 to protect and conserve natural resources in Western Pennsylvania. In 1963, the Kaufmann family donated Fallingwater to the Conservancy with the stipulation that it be preserved as a museum and educational center.
Since then, the Conservancy has worked tirelessly to maintain and restore Fallingwater. In 2002, a major restoration project was undertaken to repair damage caused by years of water infiltration. The project cost $11 million and took three years to complete.
Today, visitors can tour Fallingwater and learn about its history and design. The house is open from March through December and offers a variety of tours including guided tours, self-guided tours, photography tours, and more.
Fallingwater's Legacy
Fallingwater's legacy extends far beyond its architectural significance. It has become an icon of American design that continues to inspire architects around the world. Its unique design has been studied by countless students of architecture who seek to understand Wright's genius.
In addition to its architectural significance, Fallingwater also serves as an important reminder of our responsibility to preserve our natural resources. Wright believed that architecture should be in harmony with nature rather than dominating it. His vision for Fallingwater was one where humans could live in harmony with their environment.
Conclusion
Fallingwater is more than just a house; it is a national treasure that represents America's rich cultural heritage. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for the Kaufmann family in 1935, it has become an iconic symbol of American design innovation that continues to inspire architects around the world today.
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is entrusted with preserving this national treasure for future generations so they too can experience its beauty firsthand. With its unique design and breathtaking views, Fallingwater serves as an important reminder of our responsibility to preserve our natural resources and live in harmony with our environment.