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A rare Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian home, the only one of its kind in Glenview, Illinois, is on the market for $1,695,000. This four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom property, originally commissioned in the 1950s, sits on a secluded three-acre wooded lot bordering a nature preserve. The home combines original Wright hallmarks like mitered-glass windows and Honduran mahogany with seamless additions, including a master suite and an in-ground heated pool. For a preservation-minded buyer, this property represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of architectural history with potential for expansion on an adjacent lot.
Originally commissioned in 1950 by John Carr, this home is a prime example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian style, designed to be affordable and harmonious with the American landscape. While initially planned for Park Ridge, the home was built in Glenview a few years later due to the town's then-rural charm. The Carr family sold the property in 1965 to the Busche family, who have been the stewards of the home for nearly six decades. Following the passing of Carol Ann Busche earlier this year, her heirs are now offering the property for sale. The home was even featured in House Beautiful magazine in the 1980s, cementing its status as a significant architectural work.
The home is a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright's innovative Usonian principles, which emphasize organic architecture, integration with nature, and efficient use of space. Key original features include:
The home also boasts over 30 sets of French doors that open to the outdoors, further blurring the line between inside and outside.
Under the ownership of Edward Busche, who had an architectural background, three major additions were made that respectfully complement the original design. These seamless expansions include a master suite, an extended dining room, and a family room at the back of the house that overlooks the pool. A shed was also added for additional storage. Beyond the additions, significant updates include an in-ground heated pool installed in 1958 and a new roof that was put on in 2005. The property is being sold "as is," allowing the new owner to personalize it while preserving its historical integrity.
The home's setting is a major part of its appeal, offering unparalleled privacy. The property is situated on a three-acre, fully wooded parcel that backs up to a nature preserve. As the listing agent notes, "You can’t see the neighbors," creating a secluded oasis. The current owners also hold the title to the adjacent three-acre parcel, which is not officially listed but could potentially be incorporated into the sale. This presents a unique opportunity for a buyer to build a new primary residence on the adjacent lot while maintaining the Wright home as a guesthouse or entertainment space. The proximity to both O'Hare International Airport and Chicago Executive Airport makes it accessible for out-of-town buyers seeking a country retreat.
Based on our experience assessment, this home is likely to attract specific types of buyers. The listing agent suggests that Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts and architectural collectors are the primary audience. It may not necessarily be a local buyer but could serve as a second home or a country retreat for someone based in a major city like Chicago. The key qualification is being preservation-minded, with an appreciation for owning and maintaining a significant piece of American architectural history. The home is viewed as much as a piece of art as a residence.
In conclusion, this Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian home is a rare find for a discerning buyer. Key takeaways include its historical significance, unique architectural details, and expansive, private lot. The potential to acquire an adjacent parcel adds a layer of flexibility for the future. Prospective buyers should be prepared for a purchase that is as much about stewardship as it is about acquiring a unique property.
