Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House: A Prairie Style Gem

In the University at Buffalo's library sits an extensive collection of letters concerning Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House, a historically significant residence in the city commemorating its 120th anniversary since construction ended. These documents were penned by both Wright himself and Darwin D. Martin, who was not only a prominent businessman but also played a key role as the project’s commissioner. The duo meticulously exchanged thoughts over every aspect of designing the estate—from structural dimensions down to specific moldings, materials used for dining room furniture, among numerous additional particulars.
"We often call this dwelling the most thoroughly recorded one in our country," remarks Jessie Fisher, Executive Director of the Martin House Complex. "There could easily be several exchanges per day regarding such minute aspects as deciding precisely where to install lighting fixtures; these discussions sometimes included references to telegrams and phone conversations. It truly enriches us to possess such comprehensive records along with Mr. Martin's personal journals."

The extensive set of detailed notes played a vital role in the recent renovation and reconstruction of the Martin House complex. Completed officially in 2019, this roughly three-decade-long project involved reconstructing several components of the estate that had been torn down in the '50s—specifically, the pergola, carriage house, and conservatory. Furthermore, the preservation team also restored many additional buildings within the complex. Maintaining historic sites comes with numerous challenges; deciding the most effective way to preserve such spaces can be quite complicated. Rebuilding an entire residence presents these difficulties amplified significantly.

Here, we explore all the details you should be aware of regarding the Martin House situated in Buffalo, New York.

History of the Martin Residence

Situated at 125 Jewett Parkway in Buffalo, New York, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House stands as both a National Historic Landmark and a highly important creation of this renowned American architect. Prairie period In the beginning of the 20th century, entrepreneur Darwin D. Martin sought out an architect to create plans for his personal residence as well as a new structure for the Larkin Soap Company, where he was employed.

Martin’s sibling, William E. Martin, resided in Oak Park, Illinois, which was also home to Wright during those times. In a 1902 correspondence from the University at Buffalo Archives, William endorsed Wright to his brother, mentioning, "He isn’t fraudulent or eccentric; rather, he is well-educated and refined, an honest and practical individual who holds admirable values." He continued in the same message, saying, "Your residence would undoubtedly charm him as a project for architectural creation—he is precisely the person you should engage to construct both your dwelling and workspace."

William’s suspicion that Wright was the right person for these tasks turned out to be accurate. Wright was appointed to create designs for both the Martin family compound and the Larkin Administration Building, finished in 1906. This marked Wright’s inaugural effort at designing an office structure. Sadly, the Administration Building was torn down in 1950; however, parts of it can still be found at 664 Swan Street, roughly a ten-minute car ride away from the Martin House.

Architectural features of the Martin House

When standing on Jewett Parkway opposite the Darwin Martin House, one might initially mistake it for another iconic Frank Lloyd Wright design—the Robie House in Chicago. Both buildings feature inconspicuous main entrances and are constructed with Roman bricks, reminiscent of those found in the Hyde Park area of Chicago. However, as soon as you enter the premises and observe the numerous accompanying structures, it becomes evident that this ensemble stands apart. Comprising six buildings meticulously designed by Wright himself, the entire Martin House complex encompasses almost 30,000 square feet of internal living spaces.

The six buildings constructed in the Prairie style at this site include the George Barton House, the Gardener’s Cottage, the principal residence, the conservatory, the pergola, and the carriage house—which currently houses the museum store. On the western part of the grounds stands the Eleanor and Wilson Greatbatch Pavilion, which functions as the visitor center. This structure is distinct from others because it wasn’t conceived by Frank Lloyd Wright; instead, it was crafted by architect Toshiko Mori and inaugurated in 2009.

The pergola at the property extends as a lengthy enclosed passageway linking the primary residence with the conservatory. Without this insight, an ordinary guest might find it difficult to discern where the initial building stops. However, knowing this detail helps one appreciate the extensive effort required to accurately reconstruct the entire Martin House complex.

Similar to his other constructions, compression and expansion play crucial roles in designing the Martin House estate as envisioned by Wright. Changes in ceiling heights and room sizes guide occupants through areas where Wright wanted people to spend more time. In contrast to what another contemporary architect may have emphasized, the entrance and staircase of the primary residence remain notably subdued.

Fisher explains that he feels as though the upper floor should be a secluded area for families, wondering why the stairway was designed to stand out prominently. Minor touches such as dimming the lighting in the staircase showcase Wright’s intentional departure from conventional home designs.

The interior design of the Martin House

Wright created many of the furnishings. For the Martin House, including the Barrel Chair The lighting fixtures and integrated bookcases, which are discreetly placed around the expansive living area (referred to as "the unit room"), add charm to the dwelling. The furnishings inside consist of both authentic items and replicas. Various types of decorative stained-glass windows can be found scattered across the premises, gently separating the indoor environment from the external landscape.

The wisteria mosaic adorning all four sides of the fireplace is among the most distinctive features within the Martin House interior. Situated between the entry hall and the dining room, this design links these two areas and guides guests from one space to the next. Crafted in shades of brown and green, the mosaic has been restored to its original appearance. Botti Studio of Architectural Design using mostly new tile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the owner of the Martin House?

The principal residence is owned by an entity known as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House (previously referred to as the Martin House Restoration Corporation). However, ownership is in the process of transitioning to New York State. As for the rest of the property—including the land and all structures apart from the primary house—these will remain under the control of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House.

What was the construction cost of the Martin House?

When initially constructed, the Martin House complex had an expense of over $175,000, equivalent to more than $5 million adjusted for modern-day inflation. The extensive renovation project undertaken over many years required a budget of $50 million.

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