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The Norman Lykes House in Phoenix, Arizona, Frank Lloyd Wright's final architectural design, is listed for sale at $7,950,000. The current owner, who purchased the property for $1,677,500 in late 2019, has renovated it for use as a high-end Airbnb and is now selling it as a significant investment opportunity or potential second home for a design enthusiast. As Wright's last design and one of only 14 circular homes he ever created, the property's historical significance and unique architectural features are expected to drive a sale close to the asking price.
What is the history of the Norman Lykes House? Built in 1967, the home is known as the "Circular Sun House" and represents the final realized design from famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s portfolio, based on plans he completed in 1959. The previous owner acquired the property at a significant discount after it had languished on the market for three years. The current owner undertook a series of updates, including adding modern amenities like high-speed internet, cable, and a four-zone air-conditioning system, while meticulously preserving the home's original character. This careful restoration enhances its value for a new steward.
What are the key architectural features of this Phoenix property? The 3,100-square-foot home is a masterclass in Usonian automatic construction, a term for Wright's approach to affordable yet artistic architecture using patterned concrete blocks. The exterior is composed of concrete blocks with geometric cutouts, while the interior features curved walls crafted from Philippine mahogany. The design is driven by overlapping concentric circles, creating a fluid floor plan. Notable details include a silo-shaped fireplace, banquette seating in the living room, stainless-steel kitchen counters, Italian rose marble in the primary bathroom, and slate floors sourced from India. The property is situated on a 1.32-acre lot designed to blend into the desert foothills of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
What makes this property attractive for a potential buyer? The appeal lies in a combination of architectural rarity and modern functionality. The home includes three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a top-floor office featuring custom built-ins, making it suitable for remote work. For entertainment, a crescent-shaped pool with mother-of-pearl tile and multiple patios capitalize on the stunning views of Palm Canyon and the Phoenix skyline. According to the listing agent, potential buyers include those seeking a unique second home, Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts, and even parties considering a low-traffic, appointment-only museum use. The sale can include custom furniture, facilitating a turnkey acquisition.
Is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home a sound investment? Based on our experience assessment, properties designed by architectural masters like Wright often hold and appreciate in value due to their historical significance and scarcity. The 2019 sale of the fully restored Ennis House in Los Angeles for $18 million is a cited example of the high demand for Wright's work. As his final design, the Norman Lykes House carries a premium. The current listing's substantial price increase from its 2019 purchase price reflects both the restoration investment and the property's unique status. Prospective buyers should consult with a specialist in historic properties to understand long-term maintenance and preservation considerations.
In conclusion, the Norman Lykes House presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. The key takeaways for a potential buyer are the home's status as Frank Lloyd Wright's final design, its meticulous renovation that respects original details, and its potential for both private enjoyment and as a capital-appreciating asset. The property is positioned to sell quickly to a buyer who values unparalleled design and historical significance.
