News and updates from the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation

Frank Lloyd Wright’s DeRhodes House for Sale in Indiana

Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation | Aug 24, 2021

A stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie style, the DeRhodes House has been impeccably restored to its 1906 beginnings.

After 43 years of private ownership, the Frank Lloyd Wright DeRhodes House is for sale. Wright’s clever plan to build on the lean city lot was featured in the July 1906 issue of House Beautiful. The K.C. DeRhodes House was named after the South Bend industrialist, but the true driving force behind the house was his wife, Laura.

DeRhodes interior

Wright designed the slender, yet spacious, DeRhodes House during his “First Golden Decade.” Working from his Oak Park, Illinois studio, Wright designed the classic and iconic exterior along with some unique interior features. With intricate art-glass windows throughout, the home was originally furnished with Wright-designed furniture, and features a rare basement and garage

The DeRhodes House was the first Wright home constructed in Indiana. With its proximity to his Chicago-area studio, the architect personally supervised its construction and visited by train several times—sometimes camping out on the building site. In 1951, after the original owners had died, Wright wistfully visited the DeRhodes House one last time while on a speaking engagement in South Bend.

DeRhodes interior

In 1978, the home was purchased by Suzanne and Tom Miller, who dedicated themselves to the full restoration of the home. Using blueprints found in the attic, historic photos, and evidence discovered during the restoration itself, the DeRhodes has been thoughtfully restored.

Because of their tireless efforts and dedication, this fall the Millers are being awarded the coveted Wright Spirit Award from the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy—an award that recognizes the efforts of extraordinary individuals that preserve the Wright legacy.

Marion Mahony, perspective drawing, 1906

DeRhodes interior

 

 

The home is listed at $750,000. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the property website where you can see more pictures.

DeRhodes House