Saving Fallingwater: The Preservation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1935 Organic Masterpiece

Completed in 1935 for the family of Edgar Kaufmann Sr. as a country residence outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and regarded as the best all-time work of American architecture, Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater is celebrated as an international icon of design and has been shared with the public since 1964, making it the first house of the Modern movement to open as a museum.

While heralded as a cultural masterpiece and Wright’s best example of organic architecture, the house’s revolutionary design has presented unique preservation challenges over the years–leaking roofs, rusting steel, peeling paint, spalling concrete, and even the possible collapse of its signature cantilevers.

This year marks not only Fallingwater’s 90th anniversary but the completion of a 3-year comprehensive project that will ensure the house’s preservation for years to come.

Join Fallingwater’s Director Justin Gunther as he explores, and with rarely seen photographs, illustrates the unique preservation solutions, past and present, that have saved Fallingwater.

A book signing will follow the presentation for the new book, Fallingwater: Living With and In Art (2025, Rizzoli), edited by Justin Gunther and Scott W. Perkins, with photography by Dave Bryce.

An international treasure on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Fallingwater is a total work of art. This book, an exciting new look at a masterpiece, is a revelation for the first time seen here in its fullness’.

https://fallingwater.org

Photo Credits: fallingwater.org

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person Ages 13 and older
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash No pets, service animals permitted
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Seated activity
  • What type of parking is available?Car Parking & handicap parking available
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Restrooms available
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Indoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of ADA accessibility is available?Wheelchair Wheelchair accessible
The organizer of this event is: Modernism Week Annenberg Theater Activity

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