The Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum is an architectural gem located in Florence, Alabama. This historic treasure, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, offers a glimpse into Wright’s unique vision and the era of his creation. Built in 1939, the house stands as a testament to Wright’s Usonian style, with simplicity, harmony with nature, and modern design.
A Brief History of the Rosenbaum House
The Rosenbaum House was built by newlyweds Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum. Wright’s design focused on creating a functional yet aesthetically pleasing space for the young couple. Since its completion in 1939, the house has been an exemplary representation of Wright’s Usain principles, emphasizing affordability and practicality without sacrificing beauty. The house has an area of approximately 2500 sqft and is situated on a 7 acre plot.
Important facts:
Year Built: 1939
Location: Florence, Alabama
Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
Style: Usonian
Area: 2,500 sqft on 7 acre plot
Architectural significance
One of the home’s most prominent features is its L-shaped plan, which creates a private outdoor space. The design not only maximizes natural light and ventilation but also provides a direct connection to the landscape. Wright’s innovative use of space and light makes the house feel much larger than its actual size.
The Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum is a prime example of Wright’s Usain houses, designed to be affordable for middle-class Americans. The house has flat roofs, open floor plans, and large cantilevered overhangs, characteristic of Wright’s Usonian style. The use of natural materials, such as wood and brick, helps the house blend seamlessly with its surroundings, promoting a sense of harmony with nature.
A strange story
Frank Lloyd Wright – One of the most interesting stories associated with the Rosenbaum House Museum is his passing. By the late 1980s, the house had fallen into severe disrepair after years of neglect. The Rosenbaum family, struggling with maintenance costs, was considering tearing down the house. However, a last-minute intervention by the city of Florence saved this architectural masterpiece. The city purchased the house in 1999, restored it, and turned it into a museum, preserving Wright’s legacy for future generations.
Visiting a museum
Visitors to the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum can explore carefully restored interiors, including original furniture designed by Wright himself. The museum offers guided tours that provide insight into Wright’s design philosophy and the history of the house.
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Usualy museum open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed for Mondays and major holidays.
Solving a problem: access
A common concern for visitors is accessibility, as the house was designed in an era when accessibility standards were different. The museum has addressed this by making several modifications to accommodate visitors with mobility issues. Ramps have been installed to provide access to the main entrance, and pathways around the house have been improved. However, due to the home’s historic status, some areas may still present challenges for those with severe mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the surrounding gardens are in full bloom. It extends Wright's design experience, which emphasizes a relationship with nature.
Photography is permitted, but flash photography and tripods are not permitted indoors. This is to preserve the delicate interior and original furnishings.
Pets are not allowed inside the house. However, service animals are permitted under ADA regulations.
A guided tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright - Rosenbaum House Museum usually takes about an hour. This includes time to explore the interior, learn about the history and architecture, and ask questions.
Yes, free parking is available for visitors at the museum.
