Inside One of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Final-Ever Designs | Unique Spaces | Architectural Digest

Today AD travels to Connecticut to tour Tirranna, one of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s final designs. Considered one of the greatest architects of all time, Frank Lloyd Wright produced over 1000 designs in a career spanning 70 years, revolutionizing architecture in the United States. A pioneer of organic architecture, Wright believed any building should exist in harmony with its inhabitants and surroundings-a concept that runs through the veins of Tirranna. Join Stuart Graff, president and CEO of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, as he walks you through one of the final designs of Wright’s career.
Archival Photos:The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Archives (The Museum of Modern Art | Avery Architectural & Fine Arts Library, Columbia University, New York) All rights reserved.
Additional Drone Cinematography:Udor Photography, DBA ; Marsha Charles and Albert Safdie, Coldwell Banker listing agents
Director: Skylar Economy
Director of Photography: Eric Brouse
Editor: Tristen Rogers
Talent: Stuart Graff
Producer: Joel Ahumada
Associate Producer: Chloe Leung, Brandon Fuhr, Pita Taing
Production Manager: Melissa Heber
Production Coordinator: Fernando Davila
Camera Operator: Lauren Pruitt
Drone Operator: Ian Dudley
Sound Mixer: Jeff Gaumer
Production Assistant: Shahid Barraza
Post Production Supervisor: Andrew Montague
Post Production Coordinator: Holly Frew
Supervising Editor: Christina Mankellow
Assistant Editor: Justin Symonds
Additional Drone Cinematography: Udor Photography, DBA
Marsha Charles and Albert Safdie, Coldwell Banker listing agents
Special Thanks: Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation
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[@NilkkiNikke]

I like how warm that house feels, a nap in there during the rain must be something else.

[@deleteddata6671]

Warm? It’s dark and cold. All Wrights houses are.

[@outofthefoxootf979]

@@deleteddata6671 Even one of the most renowned architects to ever grace the earth can't please everybody.

[@greer545]

It's single glazed with no drapes. It looks freezing. If a house can't keep you warm it has failed its primary function

[@deleteddata6671]

@@outofthefoxootf979 the most renowned; hath “graced the earth” bestowing warmth on urbanites and troglodytes alike 🤩

[@luks303]

​@@outofthefoxootf979 and its specially difficult to please pretentious armchair critics like the one above

[@imcrankyy]

Would love a video like this for each one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s houses!!

[@angelapleasants8285]

Me too!😁

[@kevinho8582]

agreed!

[@joeseymour4073]

Same! This house is amazing!

[@miriamhavard7621]

Yes, please!!!!! 😊🌺🐞

[@sandysmom100]

We live near a couple they’re so cool !

[@sangambora8655]

AD doing a favor to humanity by covering these Frank Lloyd Wright gems, hopefully there's more of these videos to come

[@aptdccvii]

this guy needs to be complimented too, his knowledge and way with words is impressive and you can tell he really appreciates what hes seeing

[@evanhoffman8730]

I’m pretty sure he’s making up words…

[@HomeAtLast501]

When you look at the distant shots of the house, looking across the water, you can see that Wright perfectly matched the color of the concrete blocks to the color of the surrounding boulders, which is one of the primary mechanisms for integrating the house to the land, to give you the feeling that the house is growing up out of the ground.

[@luxelist]

I have a deep admiration for Frank Lloyd-Wright's philosophy. This house took my breath away, it blends in with the nature surrounding it so seamlessly. This video was such a soothing watch.

[@melodyelson3202]

Thank you for your shared thoughts. I found this video so calming this morning of an amazing space .. one winders what it must have been living there

[@ALLrobotsAreSad]

Except the bedrooms. Seems like a stuffy 1970s closet.

[@nervun8097]

I love how time hasn't changed Wright's original idea of coexistence with nature but rather it has made this connection stronger by helping the building "settle in" the surrounding environment and become one with it.

[@reggieongoogle3583]

Can we have LESS celebrity OpenDoors episodes, and MORE of this?

[@katella]

Yes please!

[@davidsaxby5400]

Absolutely. Spot on, exactly what I thought.

[@miriamhavard7621]

Please! ☺️

[@soraiaalves1015]

Yes please ❤

[@allisonandrews4719]

How about a compromise 3 decent design history commissions for each slightly nauseating celebrity NYC or SoCal property?

[@woj3pl668]

One of the most beautiful houses I've ever seen. Perfectly organic and inviting.

[@shaggybreeks]

WOW! I've been a fan of Wright for decades and never knew about this house. It's beautiful beyond words. OMG!

[@angelapleasants8285]

His architecture was ahead of its time and very well-made. ❤

[@SpockvsMcCoy]

Wright used high quality materials... however some of his houses and buildings have leaky roofs and structural problems (cantilevered designs).

[@007diego2]

@@SpockvsMcCoy I think I get it, an artist like Mr. Wright might’ve leaned towards his artistic disposition, sometimes a little too much, when he should’ve been listening to his engineering mind…What a problem to have, though.

[@jokerace8227]

Even compared to his other designs, this place is quite the masterpiece.

[@floridaproductions]

What a fantastic narration of this property.Just a wonderful,special property.Thank you very much !

[@vinceburden4395]

An architecture that impacts the natural setting of the place is like a falling leaf in an uninterrupted ground but at the same time has a lot of impact on how humans live alongside the environment. I really admire Wright's philosophy to his architecture.

[@PARoth2011]

Riveting and spiritually soothing and I finally understand the “why” of small bedrooms and narrow hallways opening into large, open living spaces. It’s breathtaking how the land and water perfectly frame this exquisite house…just wow.

[@ericmoore571]

Usually i prefer large English country houses, but this is so peaceful and serene. I love everything about it.

[@MariposasSol]

To be surrounded by nature is to be surrounded by peace.

[@bdadamovicz]

It's curious how structural design elements were brought up so often when this is one of Wright's biggest weaknesses and a leading reason why so many of his building were demolished or in need of massive repair. Granted by this point in time much of the engineering aspect was likely done by other people within his agency after learning his earlier mistakes. At this point in time in the US architecture and engineering were largely learned at a company and not a university. University education in engineering was largely a product of the space race. Still as a designer there are few that compare to the beauty of many of his designs. Prairie School and American Arts and Crafts design is in my opinion some of the premier architectural design ever.

[@mallurypollard7815]

Juxtaposition: every architects and architecture enthusiasts favorite word.

[@michaelnicola5210]

This is so much more than a house, it would be a shame to not think more of it as a repository of feelings in nature, immersive and alive. Not all such places visually thrive in winter, this embraces it and because of the materials allows it, encourages it to invite you in. Cool concrete when it is hot, warm Philippine mahogany when it is cold, creating multiple environments to inhabit. Thank you so much, AD for producing this with such respect and awe.

[@malunachow]

Despite different space needs, including the height of the rooms, the whole thing enchanted me, and the story about this "place to live"/"place in life" is very beautiful and valuable. So calming, beautiful, and holistic.

[@MichaelKomlo]

So incredible , a true organic beauty of architecture. There was no one like Frank Lloyd Wright, I’m in awe of his design and artistry. Love the landscape and river and the way the house just belongs there.

[@theshypersistence]

Beautifully presented! Poetic and reverent just like the house itself 🍂

[@steventheo69]

For a very long time, I have admired the architecture of FLW, with Falling Water being my favorite. This house just became my new favorite. I love everything about it. Thanks for sharing!!!

[@theoldman2821]

Fallingwater.

[@opusnone1]

What a perfect blend of architecture and nature

[@Brian-yf7uf]

That long passageway with the glass panels reminds me of the house in "Ozarks". Love that house

[@Nicksonian]

“There is so much bland architecture…” Amen. Modern builders create collections of big boxes hobbled together and with fancy finishes glued on and call them beautiful. As if a Big Mac could ever be considered beautiful…or healthy. Wright’s houses are the closest thing, outside of nature itself, to provide a mystical, wonderous feeling. I have only ever stood in Falling Water, but even seeing these remarkable creations on TV still fills me with awe.

[@marklerfald]

Thank you AD. My heart was racing as Mr. Graff toured us through the property and explained Wright’s signature elements. This video is a treasure and a wonderful homage to FLW.

[@alanprobsten2858]

Your heart raced when you watched this video? You dweeb

[@sleepykat9]

I'm reading Ayn Rand's Fountain head, who her main character is based off of Frank Lloyd Wright. I now have a deeper appreciation for the book along with quintessential architect. ❤

[@gonippon]

This reminds me of Japanese garden very much. I posted videos in my channel about it. The chain that rain is falling along it can be seen in temples in Japan very often. It is incredible design and felt the respect of the nature.

[@CarolineGlennon-bh5kh]

Just said it has a Japanese feel,. Sheer natural beauty

[@anitahamlin2411]

I had never seen this one. The architecture really shows who designed it.

[@rollinwithunclepete824]

I never knew of Tirranna. I love Falling Waters but it seems more fantasy... difficult to live in. Tirranna looks like so comfortable... single panned glass aside ;)

[@theoldman2821]

Fallingwater.

[@KimSincox]

Thank you for creating this very "Zen" video - beautiful, intentional, quiet, enlightening. Will definitely watch more than once!

[@TheMattsterling]

Thank you for sharing this awe inspiring structure. I am a huge fan of FLW and this is just a feast for the eyes.

[@paranoidhumanoid]

The replacement for downspouts 10:55 was inspired by rain-chains (kusari-doi) which are used in Japanese multi-level pagodas, shrines, and temples as well as homes.

[@Cre-Art]

Beauty, comfort, appreciation for the materials and for natural landscape elements. Perfection.

[@thespectator1243]

I will probably never live in such a beautiful place. But it fills my hearth with joy, knowing it exists. :) I hope that - with new technologies such as 3D house printing emerging - in the future most houses will be similar in nature (no pun intended) as the ones designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. As many people as possible should be able to live in such homes. :)

[@savusilviu]

I like the Bloomberg keyboard on the desk. Gives away the owners profession

[@r.k.2823]

That incredible structure is like a beautiful sonnet by the way it tells a story.

[@marciayoung8735]

This house deserves to be lived in and enjoyed.

[@melissahyatt9626]

I’m so in awe of this. Such peace and serenity.

[@vivnoname]

What a beautiful setting, the house is such a warm addition to the natural surrounds. Love it.

[@bcookmusic]

Exquisite! Love his design here.. Enjoyed every second of this.. Great tour. Well done 👏👏

[@jaybirdsf]

Beautiful video, insightful narrative, thoroughly informative-- and a FLW house with which I was completely unfamiliar. Bravi, tutti!

[@MikeKobb]

Beautiful place. The landscape architecture is exquisite as well.

[@amitmahato3587]

Aaron Finch as the face of 4rabet just elevates everything his sports creds are just unmatched

[@SpockvsMcCoy]

I love how skylights and both the transom and clerestory windows break up the mass of this house.

[@zovalentine7305]

Rest in peace 🙏 Frank Lloyd Wright 8 June 1867 ~ 9 April 1959⚘

[@julie9159]

Whatever is going on in your life, that may be troubling, causing you sadness or sorrow. Watch this. The gentle pace, music, and narration, all wrapped around, the sheer beauty of the building and its setting, will just, if even for a short time, melt troubles away.....

[@Nicolaspurr]

Such an interesting piece, beautifully narrated.

[@windowtrimmer8211]

Mr. Graff does a fine job of describing the exquisitely indescribable.

[@SuAndFox]

Oh, I'm so loving these videos of FLW's masterpieces. Thank you! Thinking about those narrow hallways - they play also on the experience FLW liked to create. The sense of taking a journey through compressed spaces to open light filled spaces, reconnecting with the outside again. Whereas the hallways surrounding the courtyard allow us to feel almost connected to that outside space while still sheltered within. And the low chairs allow for a different view of the outside than you have sitting on a bed or standing.

[@mohammadtaufiqueakbani]

Having Aaron Finch at 4ra events spells quality and trust his presence is a big win

[@josephpiskac2781]

Frank Lloyd Wright is Heaven on Earth! I am a retired architect living in a RAM Promaster City Van. I feel the 50 sq. ft. for my van interior has some of the charm of Wright's design in my van interior and it's relation to nature.

[@Zer0KooI]

…. What?

[@stevenvarga]

That greenhouse area is beautiful!

[@donjuan150]

Wonderfully narrated and educational video of a masterpiece.....I have never heard of!!

[@jimmy7879]

Quite stunning, beautiful, serene. Thank you for creating and sharing this.

[@melindafriesen]

The beauty and peace! Seeing the pond makes me think of the phrase, as above, so below. You see the obscured image in the pond only to lift your gaze to the perfected structure above.

[@PeterEconomy]

Amazing house and Stuart Graff gave the best tour ever!

[@LindaKing-nq6ut]

Great to see this FLW designed house..the setting is beautiful..having seen & toured several of his homes,the setting of this one stands out as does the position of the house in the natural setting….

[@josephinebrevig8748]

The filming itself is so soothing…a sensory experience ❤❤❤ Beautiful

[@astroguster5522]

Have you guys done Florida Southern College? I went to school there and I always appreciated how the newer buildings tried their best to match Frankie's vision

[@danielduarte2139]

The most beautiful house I have ever seen. It is art! I want to see a video of each season of the year to see how the house changes with the environment.

[@jeevaniv9692]

This house makes me emotional for some reason

[@charleskimson2288]

I love all of the nature that you see both in and out! Stunning!

[@dre9814]

Currently for sale in New Canaan (CT) for $7 million... has been on the market about 8-months but appears to be pending sale.

[@shaggybreeks]

The price of a fixer-upper in SFO

[@pearpenguin]

Ha, I thought he said "Toronto" and I didn't know Wright had a structure named Toronto. Locally many people here pronounce the city name exactly like this. Spelled Toronno or Toronna

[@sheemakarp6424]

☝🏽💯

[@joanneewerling5698]

Thank you AD for show-casing this amazing creation. Well done!

[@hailey_holmez]

I hope that someone who appreciates gardening can own this house next! Seeing all of these empty planters just makes me wonder if this is what he wanted his legacy to be. Expensive houses without the touches of love he intended

[@sanjibnath5146]

Aaron Finch at 4ra events adds a spark of reliability and quality, always a crowd-puller

[@baba-vh7hb]

grand master's Frank Lloyd Wright

[@carboncrom9862]

A friend of mine lived in one of Wright’s houses in Kenilworth, Illinois. I always wondered what those chains were for, now I know

[@rubberdc]

This is a beautiful building , and as i watched the film the haunting sound of the music and water just made my eyes glaze over . so soothing .

[@blackie8306]

Terrific and informative video. Simple and straightforward analysis of the ideas behind this design. Can you please do more videos with this narrator and in this visual style on other FLW's houses.

[@peace4myheart]

Beautiful. I wouldn't want to live there bc I don't want to ruin such a piece of art.

[@mjgreeneaudio]

Beautiful video and stunning architecture. Thank you for allowing us into this amazing space.

[@edcomedian357]

Beautiful! I agree why isn't modern architecture one with nature?

[@UniqueDesign-b2z]

Wow, this design makes me want to redecorate my whole living space! Great job!

[@tonyallen2797]

Simply astonishing.

[@mi1stormilst]

This is an amazing property thank you for presenting it so effortlessly.

[@solarei.architecture]

A dateless design philosophy, a building that works with nature, environment, standing the test of time. A design approach that will always be relevant, no matter what’s in and out of fashion.

[@rajuram3588]

Yaar 4ra ke birthday bonus ne toh dil khush kar diya, apne din pe special feel hota hai

[@claudebregaint]

All house that s he build up were incredibke related with nature ,seems simplicity ,but mostly elegant ❤❤❤❤

[@arizonaalchemy7572]

LOVE F.L.W. Architecture ! The Usonian homes are my Favorites.

[@GoldLeafPress]

I have gone to like 3 of his houses! It is though cramped when you go inside.

[@theoldman2821]

I have been inside over 30. I don't think you know what you're talking about.

[@alisonamaryllis111]

Lovely commentary articulating so much of what I think about how one might live. Thanks.

[@donndelfin1312]

Philippine Mahogany is now very expensive here in the Philippines. and many people are now planting those trees because of its demand.

[@JoeNielsen44]

Absolutely beautiful and serene! Just watching this video stirred many emotions.

[@scentline]

You see a lot of bare concrete interior design, minimalism, and organic architecture blending with nature today. FLW was way ahead of his time for sure ❤

[@brandonkatona7734]

Amazing, i'm in complete awe. Love FLW so much

[@user-hi1tk2yu5g]

Aaron Finch with 4rabet makes every event feel more prestigious his track record speaks for itself

[@dfarmer4201]

Genius. Beautifully filmed and presented. Thank you.

[@MeenaKumari-bz1jm]

When Finch shows up at 4rabet events you know it's gonna be a quality time super exciting

[@deannamauretic]

As we are of earth so are wrights creations. His homes evoke a sense of oneness with all of the elements.

[@fordsrestorations970]

Take careful notice that there's not much clutter , we all face the plague Battle of dust collectors , mixing art with easy maintenance is truly a blessing

[@jbrown7403]

Suggestion. Can you create a Frank Lloyd Wright Playlist? 😊

[@Lo51848]

This is his most beautiful house. Never heard of it until today

[@xfhghe]

I think that FL Wright really shines given a rural natural setting. Tirranna fits that bill.

[@markgettemeyer1145]

Nice job with this, AD. Beautifully done feature.

[@cosimavonliebenau8317]

I feel such peace and pleasure watching this video