Background

Paul J. Trier House: A Usonian Gem

Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian masterpiece in Iowa: The Paul J. Trier House, a harmonious blend of nature and modern living.

3.8

The Paul J. Trier House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is a Usonian-style home completed in 1958 in Johnston, Iowa. It exemplifies Wright's vision for affordable, modern living integrated with nature, and was the last of seven Wright's Usonian houses built in Iowa.

A brief summary to Paul J Trier House - Frank Lloyd Wright

  • 6880 NW Beaver Dr, Johnston, Iowa, 50131, US

Local tips

  • While the house is a private residence, it can be viewed respectfully from the street.
  • Consider visiting other Frank Lloyd Wright sites in Iowa, such as the Stockman House in Mason City or the Walter House at Cedar Rock.
  • Check out local resources and guided tours for additional context on Wright's architectural philosophy.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From central Johnston, head northwest on Merle Hay Road, then merge onto I-35 N/I-80 W. Take exit 129 and merge onto I-235 W. Take exit 5 towards NW Beaver Dr, keeping left at the fork. The Paul J Trier House will be on your right. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take the DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus service from any DART station in Johnston. Transfer to Route 60 towards John Deere Des Moines Works. Get off at the stop closest to NW Beaver Dr, from which it is a short walk (about 0.5 miles) to the Paul J Trier House. Check the DART website for schedules and fares. A single ride fare is $2.50.

  • Rideshare

    Use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to 6880 NW Beaver Dr, Johnston, IA 50131. The cost varies based on your starting location in Northwest Iowa.

Unlock the Best of Paul J Trier House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Paul J Trier House - Frank Lloyd Wright

The Paul J. Trier House, located in Johnston, Iowa, is a significant example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian design principles. Completed in 1958, it was the last of seven Usonian homes designed by Wright in Iowa. The house was commissioned by Paul and Ida Trier, who had studied Wright's designs in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. The home's design is a variation of Wright's 1953 Usonian Exhibition House, which was displayed at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York. The house features a low, flat roof and is constructed with hollow clay tile blocks, with a later addition made of brick. The interior boasts red concrete slab floors (except for slate in the kitchen) and Philippine mahogany woodwork. A prominent fireplace anchors the living room, and large windows in the living room and master bedroom face south, providing ample natural light and integrating the home with its surroundings. Deep overhangs provide shade during the summer months. In 1967, Taliesin Associates, added a north wing to the house, enclosing the original carport to create a playroom. The house is a prime example of Wright's Usonian ideals, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and a connection to the natural landscape. The Paul J. Trier House was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 9, 1988. While interior tours are not generally available, the exterior can be viewed to appreciate Wright's architectural vision.

Popular Experiences near Paul J Trier House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Popular Hotels near Paul J Trier House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Select Currency