Frank Lloyd Wright's Bogk House in Milwaukee: A Guide to the Historic $1.5M Listing

The Frederick C. Bogk House in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a rare Frank Lloyd Wright-designed single-family home listed for $1.5 million. This marks only the second time the 1917-built National Historic Landmark has been on the market, presenting a unique opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. The property combines Wright's signature Prairie School style with distinct Japanese influences and includes the potential to acquire original Wright-designed furnishings.

What Makes the Bogk House Architecturally Significant?

Completed in 1917 for businessman Frederick C. Bogk, this 6,712-square-foot home is unique among Frank Lloyd Wright's extensive work in Wisconsin. Unlike his more standardized American System-Built Homes, the Bogk House stands as a one-of-a-kind creation. Its design coincides with Wright's work on Tokyo's Imperial Hotel, resulting in a clear Japanese aesthetic influence. The home is a prime example of the Prairie School style, an architectural movement characterized by horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhanging eaves, and integration with the landscape. A key feature is the textured cast concrete, a material Wright later utilized in his Southern California projects.

The two-level home includes five bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and one half-bath. A notable feature for its era is the inclusion of a one-car garage, which was uncommon in early 20th-century residential design. The home's status as a National Historic Landmark, a designation it received in 1972, recognizes its national significance and helps ensure its preservation.

What is Included in the Furnishings Sale?

A unique aspect of this listing is the separate sale of furnishings, some of which were designed by Frank Lloyd Wright specifically for the home. Until mid-October 2026, these pieces are available for purchase outside of auction for approximately $900,000. Key items include an ebony, walnut, and cane dining set and a library table, crafted in the shop of George Mann Niedecken. The sale also includes seating from Taliesin Associated Architects and additional furnishings from Heritage Henredon, both dating from the 1960s.

The current sellers, through listing agent Melissa LeGrand, have expressed a strong hope that the furnishings remain with the property. As they were designed for the specific spaces within the house, their presence maintains the architectural integrity and original vision for the home. After the mid-October deadline, any unsold items will be auctioned by Christie's.

How Has the Home's Original Character Been Preserved?

The Elsner family, who purchased the home in 1955, were dedicated stewards for nearly seven decades. Based on our experience assessing the property's history, they undertook 27 distinct restoration and renovation projects to preserve its authenticity. Their work included sourcing reproduction rugs, meticulously matching original paint shades, and adding a first-floor powder room in a manner sympathetic to the existing design. Even during a kitchen renovation in the 1960s, the family made the conscious decision to preserve the original countertops and sinks. This long-term commitment means the next owner acquires a home whose historic character has been meticulously maintained.

What is the North Point Neighborhood Like?

The Bogk House is located in Milwaukee's North Point neighborhood, an area described as highly desirable. The neighborhood is a stone's throw from Lake Michigan and is known for its historically preserved homes. It offers proximity to parks, downtown amenities, and is considered a "wonderful strolling neighborhood." The area is characterized by a strong sense of community, with neighbors often knowing each other and residing in their homes for long periods. This stability adds to the area's appeal for a buyer seeking a established, historic community.

Prospective buyers should be prepared for the responsibilities of owning a designated historic property, which may involve adhering to specific preservation guidelines for any future modifications. The asking price of $1.5 million reflects the property's rarity, architectural significance, and exceptional state of preservation. This is not just a home purchase but an opportunity to become the next custodian of a masterwork by America's most famous architect.