Painting derived from original photograph by Patricia Sahertian. 2.5 x 4 inches, acrylic on photo paper.
Continuing with my series based on the Arizona Preservation Foundation‘s endangered buildings list we find a story with national recognition and a happy ending.
If you live in Phoenix you were sure to have heard the news last year that the David and Gladys Wright house was in danger. Located in a lovely Arcadia neighborhood, this Frank Lloyd Wright gem made national news when its owners were planning to sell it for demolition and have the property developed and replaced by new homes. This plan was stopped when an anonymous buyer paid $2.387 million for it, stopping the developers.
A victory for preservationists around the country, the sale came about through the intercession of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, a group that works to preserve the architect’s legacy. The sale unfolded in virtual secret; few people beyond the sellers, their agent, the buyer and officials at the conservancy were aware of its details.
The fight to save the house had galvanized preservationists and stirred spirited debates among City Council members over the value of preserving historically relevant structures versus the need to safeguard homeowners’ property rights.
Source the New York Times.