Background

David and Gladys Wright House: A Desert Spiral

Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's spiral masterpiece in Phoenix: the David and Gladys Wright House, a unique vision of desert living and organic architecture.

4.4

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for his son and daughter-in-law, the David and Gladys Wright House in Phoenix is a unique example of organic architecture. Built in the early 1950s, its spiral design and concrete block construction reflect Wright's vision of desert living.

A brief summary to David and Gladys Wright House

Local tips

  • Check the official Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation website or other reliable sources for information on tour availability, as access may be limited due to ongoing restoration efforts.
  • Even if you can't tour the inside, take a walk around the exterior to appreciate the unique spiral design and desert landscape.
  • The Arcadia neighborhood, where the house is located, is a beautiful area to explore with other interesting homes and local spots.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Arcadia neighborhood, walking to the David and Gladys Wright House is a pleasant option. From the intersection of 44th Street and Camelback Road, head east on Camelback Road until you reach 36th Street. Turn left onto 36th Street and walk north until you reach Rubicon Avenue. Turn left onto Rubicon Avenue, and the house will be on your right at 4505 N Rubicon Ave.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Phoenix, take the Valley Metro Bus Route 50 (Van Buren) towards 7th Ave. Get off at 32nd St and Camelback Rd. Transfer to Bus Route 60 (Camelback) towards 7th Ave. Get off at 36th St and Camelback Rd. Walk north on 36th St, then turn left onto Rubicon Ave. The David and Gladys Wright House will be on your right. A single ride on Valley Metro bus costs $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taking a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option. Simply enter 'David and Gladys Wright House' or the address '4505 N Rubicon Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85018' as your destination. From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), a taxi ride will cost approximately $30-$40. Taxi rates are $5 for the first mile and $2.30 for each additional mile.

Unlock the Best of David and Gladys Wright House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about David and Gladys Wright House

The David and Gladys Wright House, nestled in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix, Arizona, stands as a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright's innovative approach to organic architecture. Constructed between 1950 and 1952 for his son David and daughter-in-law Gladys, the house embodies Wright's vision of how to live in the Southwest. The house distinguishes itself with a unique spiral design, reminiscent of the Guggenheim Museum in New York, which Wright was designing around the same time. This design wasn't just for aesthetics; the spiral shape helps to catch and direct the wind, naturally cooling the building in the Arizona heat. The main house, a curved structure made of concrete blocks, sits on seven piers and is accessed by a spiraling ramp. The property also features a detached guesthouse. The interior of the 2,553-square-foot house features three bedrooms and four bathrooms. Wright's signature style is evident throughout, with circular motifs, geometric shapes, and custom-designed furnishings. The living room boasts unadorned block walls, concrete floors, and Philippine mahogany accents. After David and Gladys Wright passed away, the house faced the threat of demolition. However, it was saved and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2022. Today, the house is under restoration by new owners who are working to bring it back to its original glory. While public tours are not consistently available, virtual tours offer a glimpse into this architectural masterpiece.

Popular Experiences near David and Gladys Wright House

Popular Hotels near David and Gladys Wright House

Select Currency