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For buyers seeking a unique property touched by architectural genius, the Copeland House in Oak Park, Illinois, presents a rare opportunity. This 6,000-square-foot home is not a Frank Lloyd Wright original build but a significant 1908-1909 renovation by the legendary architect. Recently, the asking price for this five-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home was reduced to $1.167 million, making it a notable listing in the historic district. The property includes a detached coach house, offering potential for rental income or guest accommodation.
What is the history of the Copeland House? Originally constructed in 1873 in an Italianate style, the home is situated on a one-acre lot. Its historical significance stems from the renovations commissioned by its second owner, Dr. William H. Copeland. Dr. Copeland, a surgeon, hired Frank Lloyd Wright to remodel the property. Wright, a leading figure of the Prairie School architectural movement (characterized by horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhangs, and integration with the landscape), sought to harmonize the original design with his own style. The residence is located in the heart of the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District, with the architect's own home and studio and several other of his designs just steps away.
What specific changes did Frank Lloyd Wright make? Wright’s contributions are substantial and visible throughout the property. His key interventions included adding a wraparound porch and designing a separate coach house and garage. Inside, hallmarks of his design philosophy are evident. These include a low-pitch hipped roof and a built-in dining-room buffet. A primary goal of the renovation was to create a dialogue between the existing Italianate details and Wright's emerging Prairie style. This effort resulted in dramatic, soaring ceilings and strong horizontal bands that define the interior spaces, creating a unique architectural fusion.
What are the potential uses for the coach house and attic? A significant advantage of this property is its potential for additional living space and income generation. The detached coach house, a Wright-designed structure, is a self-contained unit featuring one bedroom, one bathroom, a living room, kitchen, and dining area. Based on our experience assessment, this space could be ideal for generating rental income or serving as comfortable quarters for visiting guests. Furthermore, the third floor consists of a raw attic space. A future owner could potentially convert this area into a studio, extra family room, or additional living quarters, subject to local zoning and permitting requirements.
Is this a good investment for a Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiast? This property offers a distinctive entry point into owning a piece of architectural history. While it was not built from the ground up by Wright, it represents one of his rare remodeling projects where his handiwork is readily apparent. The recent price reduction to $1.167 million, down from its initial listing in the summer of 2018, may increase its attractiveness to a specific buyer. The combination of historic provenance, architectural significance, and potential for expansion makes the Copeland House a one-of-a-kind offering.
Key considerations for a potential buyer include:
Purchasing a home with this level of historical significance is a major decision. The Copeland House stands as a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright's ability to transform an existing structure, blending architectural eras into a cohesive and remarkable home.
