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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 example of organic architecture.

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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 1952, its spiral design and concrete block construction reflect Wright's vision of harmony with the desert landscape.

A brief summary to David and Gladys Wright House

Local tips

  • Check the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation website or other reliable sources for updates on tour availability before planning your visit.
  • Even if you can't tour the inside, take a moment to appreciate the unique architecture from the street.
  • Consider exploring other nearby attractions in the Camelback East Village area, such as Camelback Mountain or the Desert Botanical Garden.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Phoenix, take the Valley Metro Bus Route 50 (Van Buren) eastbound. Ride for approximately 20 minutes and get off at the 32nd St and Camelback Rd stop. Transfer to Bus Route 60 (Camelback) towards 7th Ave. Ride for about 15 minutes and 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 at 4505 N Rubicon Ave. A single bus fare is $2.

  • Ride Share

    Use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from your location. Enter 'David and Gladys Wright House' or the address '4505 N Rubicon Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85018' as your destination. The ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes from downtown Phoenix and costs approximately $15-25, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Walking

    If you are in the Camelback East Village area, you can walk to the David and Gladys Wright House. Use a map app for detailed walking directions from your location. Be aware that the house is located in a residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors.

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Discover more about David and Gladys Wright House

The David and Gladys Wright House, located in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix, Arizona, stands as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most innovative residential designs. Constructed between 1950 and 1952 for Wright's son David and his wife Gladys, the house embodies Wright's principles of organic architecture, seamlessly blending with its desert surroundings. The house features a distinctive spiral design, reminiscent of the Guggenheim Museum in New York, also designed by Wright. This unique shape isn't just for aesthetics; it was designed to capture and direct the wind, naturally cooling the house in the Arizona heat. The structure is primarily built from concrete blocks, a material chosen to showcase David's profession as a concrete block manufacturer. The main living area is elevated on concrete pillars, providing panoramic views of the surrounding citrus orchards and Camelback Mountain. A long, curved ramp provides access to the main entrance, adding to the home's distinctive character. Inside, the 2,500-square-foot home boasts circular rooms with custom-built furniture and Philippine mahogany woodwork. The design incorporates natural materials and geometric shapes, creating a harmonious and visually striking interior. The house is considered Wright's last residential masterpiece and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in early 2022. David and Gladys Wright lived in the house until their deaths, David in 1997 at the age of 102 and Gladys in 2008 at the age of 104. After Gladys' death, the house went through a period of uncertainty, facing potential demolition before being saved by new owners who are currently restoring the property. While public tours are not consistently available, a virtual tour offers a glimpse into this architectural gem.

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