The Lykes House: Frank Lloyd Wright's Final Design in Phoenix | 2026 Guide

The Lykes House in Phoenix, Arizona, represents the final residential design of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Listed for $3,600,000, this 3,000-square-foot home is a masterclass in organic architecture, a design philosophy that seeks to harmonize human habitation with the natural world. While the design was completed in 1959, the home wasn't finished until 1967. Its current market presence underscores the enduring value and collector-status of architecturally significant properties, blending timeless Wright hallmarks with a unique desert adaptation.

What Makes the Lykes House Architecturally Significant?

The home's significance stems directly from its status as Wright's last design. Its undulating form, cantilevered spaces (structures that are anchored at only one end, projecting out into space), and signature porthole cutouts are direct reflections of his late-career style, often compared to his design for New York's Guggenheim Museum. Unlike many Wright homes that prominently feature his signature "Cherokee Red" color, the Lykes House adopts a pinkish-beige hue that intentionally mirrors the surrounding desert landscape. This departure shows Wright's philosophy of designing in sympathy with the environment. A major renovation in the 1990s updated systems while carefully preserving these original design elements.

What Unique Features Are Included in the Sale?

The sale includes significant, period-appropriate furnishings, eliminating the need for new owners to source authentic pieces. The living area features original Taliesin chairs and Barrel dining chairs, directly linking the home to Wright's studio and apprentices. The property also includes custom, built-in shelving throughout, a hallmark of Wright's residential work designed for both display and efficient use of space. Another key feature is the non-regulation, half-moon-shaped swimming pool, which functions more as a design element offering panoramic desert hilltop views, framed by the home's distinctive porthole-cutout fencing.

How Does the Lykes House Compare to Other Wright Homes?

Based on our experience assessment, the Lykes House occupies a unique niche. Its posthumous completion is shared with a few other Wright projects, but its desert-centric material and color palette set it apart from his more famous works like Fallingwater. The absence of a floor-to-ceiling fireplace—a common Wright feature—in favor of a hearth built into a silo-like structure demonstrates a continued evolution of his ideas. For a buyer, this means acquiring a property that is both quintessentially Wright and a one-of-a-kind expression of his final architectural vision.

What Should a Potential Buyer Consider?

Prospective buyers should view this as both a residence and a historically significant asset. Maintaining a property of this caliber requires specialized knowledge and potentially higher upkeep costs associated with preserving original materials and architectural integrity. The value is intrinsically tied to its authenticity. Furthermore, while the included furnishings add immense value, they also come with a responsibility for preservation. Engaging a real estate professional with experience in transacting architecturally unique homes is a highly recommended step in this specialized market segment. Purchasing the Lykes House is not merely a real estate transaction; it is an opportunity to serve as a steward for a pivotal piece of American architectural history. The home's design seamlessly integrates art and living space, offering a unique lifestyle for a discerning buyer.