The Fate of Frank Lloyd Wrights Architecture: Preservation or Demolition?

What drives urban development and architectural changes?
Back in the 1960s and '70s, the concept of historical preservation was not a widely recognized or prioritized practice in the United States. Property developers often focused on the land value rather than the historical or aesthetic significance of the buildings. Consequently, many structures were torn down to make way for modern developments. This phenomenon led to the demolition of numerous famous and significant buildings, including landmark structures designed by renowned architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan. For example, the Garrick Theater, a pioneering structure designed by Sullivan, was demolished in 1961 and replaced with a parking structure. Similarly, several of Wright's works met a similar fate.

Challenges of preserving historic architecture
While there are valid reasons for the demolition of early 20th-century buildings, including impracticality and structural issues requiring redesign and repair, it is important to acknowledge that these structures were groundbreaking in their time. Frank Lloyd Wright, for instance, designed many of his buildings between 60 to 120 years ago, often standing only 5 feet 6 inches tall. His designs were artistic, experimental, and innovative, leading the way for future high-quality homes and buildings. Most of his buildings now sell for millions of dollars, significantly more than the value of the land they stand on. Therefore, it is unlikely that many of Wright's buildings will face demolition in the near future.

However, the latest noteworthy example is the demolition of an office building in Whitefish, Montana. A developer purchased the property for $1.7 million with the intention of tearing down the building and constructing a new three-story mixed-use facility. Despite the availability of land in the area, the choice to demolish a structure at $340 per square foot remains puzzling. This raises questions about the preservation of historical architecture and the planning behind such decisions.

Preservation challenges and American culture
The root of the issue lies in the American culture and economy, which are not inherently preservation-oriented. Unlike cities like Paris, many American cities have undergone significant changes over the decades. Few American cities can claim to largely resemble their pre-World War II counterparts. While some of Wright's works in more affluent areas might remain, many of his homes and buildings in less desirable sectors are at risk of being demolished due to impracticality and structural concerns. Preservation protections are insufficient, and private enterprise often has the freedom to make decisions that may not align with historical preservation goals. In a country where the economy and development often prioritize immediate gains over long-term cultural and historical value, the preservation of architectural treasures becomes a complex and often contentious issue.

Conclusion and Looking Ahead
The demolition of Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture highlights a broader conversation about the value placed on historical and architectural heritage in the United States. As we navigate the challenges of urban development and preservation, it is crucial to recognize the importance of these structures not just as artifacts of the past, but as foundational elements of our cultural identity. Future decisions will need to balance modern development needs with the preservation of our architectural and cultural legacy.