Taliesin West is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in the United States. This Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece is a must-see for any architecture lover or history buff, and there is much to learn about this fascinating place before visiting. Find out about the history of Taliesin West, what to expect on a tour and how to get there!
Taliesin West is an architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The home was built in the desert of Scottsdale, Arizona, and served as Wright’s winter residence from 1937 until he died in 1959. Today, Taliesin West is a National Historic Landmark and one of Arizona’s most popular tourist destinations.
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The History of Taliesin West
The history of Taliesin West is as fascinating as the building itself. Frank Lloyd Wright was already a well-established architect when he began working on Taliesin West in the 1930s. He had already designed several iconic buildings, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York City and the Fallingwater House in Pennsylvania.
When the Great Depression hit in 1929, Wright’s career turned. He could not find work, and many of his projects were canceled. Wright and his wife, Olgivanna, decided to move to Arizona to start fresh.
At first, the couple lived in a tent while they worked on building Taliesin West. The home was constructed by hand using local materials like stone, sand, and cactus needles. As the home began to take shape, Wright continued to add his own personal touches. He even designed the furniture himself!
In the 1940s, when overhead powerlines were built near Taliesin West, Wright wrote President Trueman asking that they be buried. He argued that the powerlines would ruin the view of his home and asked for them to be moved. When the president replied that it would be too expensive to move the powerlines, Wright took matters into his own hands and moved the entrance of Taliesin West to the other side of the building!
Taliesin West is more than just a historic building – it’s also a beautiful work of art. The home is full of intricate details and stunning views of the desert landscape. On a tour of Taliesin West, you’ll learn about Wright’s unique design process and see some of the original furnishings he created for the home.
Taliesin West: The Interior
The interior of Taliesin West is just as beautiful as the exterior. Wright designed the home to take advantage of the desert climate, with large windows that let in natural light and breezes. The rooms are also designed to flow seamlessly into one another, giving the impression of a much larger space.
One of the most interesting features of Taliesin West is the way that Wright incorporated nature into his design. The home is built around a courtyard with a large cactus in the center. Wright also used native plants and stones throughout the property, which helps it blend in with its desert surroundings.
Taliesin West is a must-see if you’re interested in architecture or design. The home is full of fascinating details and stunning views. A tour of Taliesin West is the perfect way to learn more about the life and work of Frank Lloyd Wright.
Taliesin West: The Design
The design of Taliesin West is unique and unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Wright was a true pioneer in architecture, and his work has influenced generations of architects.
Taliesin West is designed to take advantage of the desert climate. The large windows let in natural light and breezes, and the rooms are designed to flow seamlessly into one another. This gives the impression of a much larger space.
Wright also incorporated nature into his design, with a courtyard that features a large cactus in the center. He used native plants and stones throughout the property, which helped it blend in with its desert surroundings.
Taliesin West Tours
If you’re interested in visiting Taliesin West, you should know a few things before you go. Tours of the home are offered Thursday through Monday from 9 AM to 12 PM and last approximately 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online or at the visitor center on the day of your tour, though reservations are recommended.
Sunsets & Sips: Happy Hour Program
Looking for a unique way to experience Taliesin West? Check out the Sunsets & Sips Happy Hour Program! This special event offers guests access to select spaces on the property, a beverage of choice, and staff present to answer questions. Bar service is open until 30 minutes before the close, so you can enjoy your drink while enjoying the stunning desert views.
Sunsets & Sips is available from October till May.
Taliesin West Discount Code
Arizona Residents: often get discounts of up to 50%. A quick Google search always makes the latest promo code easy to find.
How to Get to Taliesin West
12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
Taliesin West is located in Scottsdale, Arizona – just a short drive from Phoenix. The best way to get there is by car, but an airport shuttle runs between Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and Taliesin West.
Tickets cost $35.
Whether you’re an architecture lover or a history buff, Taliesin West is a destination you won’t want to miss!
