Fallingwater

Fallingwater is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces that was designed in 1935 for the Edgar Kaufman’s family. The property is located approximately 69 kilometers southeast of Pittsburgh (Wright & Donald 3). Mr. Kaufman commissioned the construction of Fallingwater upon the introduction of Wright to the family by his son. At the time, the son was a student of Wright at his Taliesin Fellowship school. before the commissioning, the family had used Fallingwater as a retreat for about 15 years. When they commissioned its construction, the family had anticipated getting a house that would be detached from the waterfall.  Such an outcome would have ensured that they have the waterfall in their sight. Instead, Wright decided to integrate the house and the waterfall, thereby making the latter a part of the house.

Fallingwater’s landscape has been transformed by water and rock. Our mother nature created the stream we know as Bear Run, by moving water gradually eroded the softer limestone and shale. The Kaufmans’ love for Bear Run waterfalls gave their inspiration to form this residence on top of the falls. They are not only viewing the nature, but actually live in the nature. Wright called his design “Organic Architecture”, therefore, the architectures was no longer placed on the earth rigidly, but growing out from its’ environment or nature towards the sun. Unleash all materials, and each room can communicate and flow with the outside world. Fallingwater is one of the best example of organic architecture.

Nevertheless, Fallingwater turned out to be a magnificent masterpiece, popular for its dynamism as well as seamless integration with the natural surroundings. His passion for the Japanese architecture is depicted in Fallingwater's design, especially the interpenetrating interior and exterior spaces (Wright & Donald 21). He also emphasized the significance of harmony between people and nature. Rooms in this house relate to the external environment, and the living room has stairs leading directly to the waterfall. Fallingwater comprises of two main parts. The first part is the main house which was made from 1936 to 1938 while the second part is the guestroom that was built in 1939. The main house has simple rooms that were furnished by Frank Wright. It also has a compact kitchen and a living room with an open plan. On the second floor, Edgar constructed three small bedrooms. The third floor has studio and Edgar Jr.’s bedroom.

Work Cited

Wright, Frank L, and Donald Hoffmann. Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater: The House and Its History. New York: Dover Publ, 1993.