Samara House, 1956
1301 Woodland Ave., West Lafayette, IN 47906
Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
DESCRIPTION:
Samara House is one story with a two tiered flat stone roof and deep eaves that feature copper ornament. The tiered roof system allows light to enter the interior of the home, enabling natural light throughout the structure. The majority of the home features half redbrick walls with windows completing the structure. The house is an irregular shape and was designed around specific landscaping that was installed over three different planting seasons and has been allowed to organically mature. As was Wright’s style, the landscaping and the structure have been designed to be in harmony; Samara House features many exterior walkways, terraces and courtyards.
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT – INCLUDING SPECIAL STATUS AND AWARDS WON:
Samara House is an example of Wright’s Usonian style, a natural and organic approach to more affordable residential architecture. Samara house is also considered one of Wright’s completely designed works, his designs can be found throughout the furniture and interior finishes as well as the landscaping; the home has been kept entirely in its original condition.
DESIGNATION STATUS:
National Historic Landmark, 2015
National Register of Historic Places, 1992
Style: Modern, Wrightian (Usonian)
Owner (past/present):
Original: John & Catherine Christian
Current: John E. Christian Family Memorial Trust Inc.
Materials: Brick, wood, glass, copper, marbled stone
Additions and/or changes with date: No major additions/changes
Historic use/current use:
Historic use: private home
Current use: museum
Is building open to the public? Open for scheduled tours: April – November
Condition : Excellent
Website and/or sources of information:
Research Sources:
National Register of Historic Places, Samara, West Lafayette, Tippecanoe, IN. 1992.
National Historic Landmark Nomination, Samara, West Lafayette, Tippecanoe, IN, 10240018. 2015.
