On a business trip this past week, I stopped by the newly renovated Westcott House in Springfield, OH. After reading all the press surrounding this home, I was eager to see it with my own two eyes and was not disappointed one bit. From the moment I walked up to the entrance of the visitor's center, I was completely enthralled.
Prior to taking a tour of the home, a video documentary is played which shows the transformation of the home during the restoration process. You will not believe how damaged the structure was! An excerpt of the documentary can be viewed here. Also, some excellent information about the Westcott House, the family, the Foundation, etc. can be found on the website www.westcotthouse.org.
Unfortunately, none of the original furniture from the home has survived. Many built-in pieces were reproduced from drawings and installed, which look very well crafted. Also, some other pieces of furniture were built that capture the spirit of Wright's designs from that era. Interestingly, the openness of the home, uncluttered with furniture and decor, allows one to truly get a sense of how Mr. Wright designed a space.
While I visited the Westcott House at the tail end of winter, I am eager to return in the summer once all of the landscaping has awoken from it's slumber. The awning on the front of the home will be rolled out and the water in the reflecting pool will be turned back on. I sincerely recommend putting this on one's list of Wright Sites to see!
Photo courtesy of PrairieMod
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