The house of moderate cost is not only America’s major architectural problem but the problem most difficult for her major architects. -Frank Lloyd Wright, 1936
- image copyright The National Trust for Historic Preservation
With these words, renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright put forth a challenge that he would grapple with for many years. His solution–the Usonian house –was a modestly-scaled family dwelling that was (relatively) affordable, designed for modern family life, and responded to the surrounding environment. The Pope-Leighey House is a classic example of this type of architecture and of mid-20th century design. Commissioned in 1939 by journalist Loren Pope, the Usonian home was a manifesto of Wright’s belief in American design for the people, unburdened by past architectural traditions. Wright’s innovative use of four natural materials (wood, brick, glass and concrete) created a sense of a large, more spacious abode – in only 1,200 square feet. In 1964, Mrs. Marjorie Leighey, the second owner of the house, donated the house and its furnishings to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Scheduled for demolition due to widening of Route 66 near its original Falls Church (Virginia) location, the house was relocated to the grounds of Woodlawn. The Pope-Leighey House today tells the story of Frank Lloyd Wright’s innovative designs for a modestly-sized and affordable single-family house and how two families adapted the dwelling to fit their lifestyle. The house survives today as an example of preservation-in-action due to the combined efforts of Marjorie Leighey – the second owner of the house – and the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
