by Kira Stann

Created on: August 12, 2011

A stunning piece of preserved Americana once owned by a distinguished department store owner, Edgar J. Kaufmann, Fallingwater is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most prominently acclaimed architectural masterpieces. Designed in 1935 and constructed from 1936-1938 with a total cost of $115,000, Fallingwater was created of sandstone excavated and cut on the property. This amazing Frank Lloyd Wright designed structure is the epitome of man, harmonizing with nature’s beauty. A palatial home even by today’s standards, Fallingwater consists of 5,330 total square feet for the house and 1,700 square feet for the guest house.

Built on slabs of sandstone cantilevered directly over a waterfall, Fallingwater was a favorite mountain retreat for the Kaufmann family. The guest house was constructed in 1939, its design corresponding with the one with nature theme of the main house. The Kaufmann family owned Fallingwater until it was donated by Edgar in 1963 to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

Fallingwater is a definite must-see for tourists visiting Mill Run, Pennsylvania. The house can be viewed by guided tours and is open throughout the year, except for January, February, and major holidays.  In-depth, Brunch and Sunset guided tours offer visitors an unprecedented view into the lives the Kaufmann family led in this lovely nature inspired house. Self-guided tours of the grounds are allowed year round, weather permitting. 

A terraced structure, Fallingwater appears to magically hover over the rushing water of Bear Run that flows below it. The stream is accessible from a stairway that extends from the living room area, giving the illusion of flowing with the waters of the stream. Nestled in the foliage with the utmost attention to the minutest detail, the home blends seamlessly with the abundant nature that surrounds it, fulfilling Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural intention of creativity outside the box.

Stretching three stories into the sky from its watery perch, Fallingwater is filled with the golden glow of the sun through its floor to ceiling casements. These soaring windows boast unobstructed views of the stream and Western Pennsylvania Conservancy’s Bear Run Nature Reserve that occupies the surrounding 5,000 acres. The original color scheme throughout the house consisted of just two colors, Cherokee red, and a light ochre, projecting a camouflaged feel to the structure.

Fallingwater is the last of Frank Lloyd Wright’s brilliantly designed architectural achievements accessible to the public that has survived with its original habitat, décor and embellishments intact.  The diligence and care of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has ensured that the sounds, scents, and sights of this unique building will continue to amaze and inspire visitors for years to come.

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