In the University at Buffalo's library sit numerous pages filled with letters concerning Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House, a historically significant residence in the city marking its 120th anniversary since construction was completed this year. These letters were penned by both Wright and Darwin D. Martin, who served as the business tycoon and commissioner of the estate. They meticulously exchanged thoughts on every aspect of the architectural plans—from the overall dimensions down to specifics such as moldings and materials used for furniture items like dining room chairs. "This house can be considered the most thoroughly recorded one in the entire country," remarks Jessie Fisher, Executive Director of the Martin House. "There could easily be several correspondences within a single day addressing minute elements—like deciding exactly where a lighting fixture should go—and these often reference additional communications through telegrams and phone conversations."
The extensive set of detailed notes played a vital role in a recent renovation and reconstruction of the Martin House complex. The project was officially finished in 2019 after almost three decades of work, during which time key parts of the property such as the pergola, carriage house, and conservatory—demolished in the '50s—were entirely rebuilt. Moreover, the preservation team also refurbished several additional buildings within the compound. Maintaining historic sites comes with numerous challenges; deciding the optimal way to preserve these spaces is often quite complicated, let alone reconstructing them from scratch.
Here, we delve into all the details you should be aware of regarding the Martin House situated in Buffalo, New York.
History of the Martin Residence
Situated at 125 Jewett Parkway in Buffalo, New York, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House stands as both a National Historic Landmark and a highly important creation of this renowned American architect. Prairie period In the beginning of the 20th century, entrepreneur Darwin D. Martin sought out an architect to create designs for his personal residence as well as a new structure for the Larkin Soap Company, where he was employed.
Martin's sibling, William E. Martin, resided in Oak Park, Illinois, which was also home to Wright during that period. In a 1902 correspondence from the University at Buffalo Archives, William endorsed Wright to his brother, noting, "He isn’t fraudulent or eccentric; rather, he is well-educated and refined—a practical and honest individual with lofty aspirations." He continued later in the same letter, "Your residence would undoubtedly delight him as a project for designing—moreover, he is precisely the person you should consider for constructing your workspace."
William’s suspicion that Wright was the right person for these tasks turned out to be accurate. Wright was appointed to create designs for both the Martin family compound and the Larkin Administration Building, finishing this project in 1906. This administration building marked Wright’s initial venture into designing an office structure. Sadly, it had to be torn down in 1950; however, parts of it can still be found at 664 Swan Street, roughly a ten-minute car ride away from the Martin House.
Architectural features of the Martin House
When standing on Jewett Parkway opposite the Darwin Martin House, one might initially mistake it for another iconic Frank Lloyd Wright design, such as the Robie House in Chicago. Both buildings feature inconspicuous main entrances and are constructed with Roman bricks, similar to those found in the house situated in Chicago’s Hyde Park area. However, upon entering the premises and observing the numerous additional structures within, it becomes evident that the Martin House Complex stands apart. This ensemble comprises six designs by Wright, encompassing an impressive total of almost 30,000 square feet spread throughout its interiors.
The six Prairie-style buildings include the George Barton House, the Gardener’s Cottage, the principal residence, the greenhouse, the pergola, and the carriage house—which currently houses the museum store. Located at the western end of the site, the visitor center known as the Eleanor and Wilson Greatbatch Pavilion stands out as the sole structure not conceived by Wright; instead, it was crafted by Toshiko Mori and inaugurated in 2009.
The pergola at the property extends as a lengthy enclosed passage linking the primary residence with the conservatory. For an ordinary guest, discerning where the initial building concludes might seem challenging without this insight; however, knowing this detail helps appreciate the extensive effort required to accurately reconstruct the entire Martin House complex.
Similar to his other creations, compression and expansion play crucial roles in designing the Martin House estate as envisioned by Wright. Changes in ceiling heights and room dimensions guide occupants through areas where Wright wanted people to spend more time. Unlike what another contemporary architect might emphasize with an elaborate display, the entrance and stairs of the primary residence maintain a modest presence.
Fisher explains that he feels as though the upper floor should be a secluded family area, making the prominence of the stairs seem out of place. Minor touches such as dimming the lighting in the stairwell showcase Wright’s intentional reinterpretation of conventional home design principles.
The interior design of the Martin House
Wright created many of the furnishings. For the Martin House, including the Barrel Chair The lighting fixtures and the discreetly integrated bookcases scattered across the expansive living area—referred to as "the unit room"—add charm to the place. The furnishings inside consist of both authentic items and their replicas. Various types of art glass windows can be found around the premises, softly separating the indoor environment from the exterior landscape.
The wisteria-themed mosaic adorning all four sides of the fireplace is among the most distinctive features within the interior of the Martin House. Situated between the entry hall and the dining room, this brown-and-green-hued mosaic serves as a link between these two areas, guiding guests from one space to another. This intricate artwork was later reproduced. Botti Studio of Architectural Design using mostly new tile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the owner of the Martin House?
The primary residence is owned by an entity known as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House (previously referred to as the Martin House Restoration Corporation). However, ownership is now shifting to New York State. The rest of the property—including the land and all structures apart from the main house—will remain under the control of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House.
What was the construction cost of the Martin House?
When initially constructed, the Martin House complex had a price tag of over $175,000, equivalent to more than $5 million adjusted for modern-day inflation. The extensive renovation project undertaken over many years came with a staggering price tag of $50 million.
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