A tour bus drives you to the home, which sits atop a big hill off one of the main roads. One of the first scenes you pass is a dam that was commissioned by Mr. Wright which provided electricity and the sound of running water – both to be enjoyed by residents and guests. Getting off the bus, we first walked through some groves and an old vineyard. Our tour guide told us that Mr. Wright and his students would work in these fields with his gramophone playing music loudly for all to hear. Across the rolling hills, you can see the house Mr. Wright built for his sister, Jane Porter.
Moving on, you quickly come to the crescendo of the property – the courtyard. The grounds are orientated all around this central spot, and the greenery and the home itself were able to be taken in all at once atop this hill.
Little pops of Mr. Wright’s favorite “Cherokee Red” could be spotted everywhere.
We chose the 2-hour “House Tour” so that we could get a more extensive experience within Taliesin. However, they do provide other tours that offer guests a different type of visit, such as the “Hillside Studio & Theater Tour” or the 4-hour “Estate Tour”. When we make it back one day, we look forward to being able to do the 4-hour tour here like we did at Taliesin West.
It was fun to see the recurring themes and design elements between this Taliesin and Taliesin West, such as the low seating, anchored furniture, and even the colors and shapes of the throw pillows.
True to his nature, Frank Lloyd Wright had a variety of Asian art scattered within and outside of the residence.
So many interesting cuts and shapes for these windows. Every detail felt like it was made with such purpose.
Can you spot the oddity within the stone wall?
A Taliesin lamp within it’s namesake.
Mr. Wright designed this walkway so that you could feel as though you were walking among the treetops.
It was a treat and a true privilege to be able to walk through another one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s homes. His innovative, courageous, and thoughtful designs leave us, and many more, feeling very inspired. Happy 150th birthday Mr. Wright!
(If you haven’t already, make sure to check out our visit to Taliesin West here)
The Lumpkins 