As far as iconic architects go, Frank Lloyd Wright is undoubtedly near the top of the list. For over 70 years, Wright became world-famous for designing buildings that incorporated nature, geometry, and timeless aesthetics.
Most of his properties are revered to this day, including this one in Pleasantville, NY. As part of Wright’s “Ursonia” development, the Toyhill House is full of wonder and whimsy. The 2,100-square-foot home resembles what you might find in a children’s book. Fitting, as it originally belonged to a toymaker. Recently, it sold for over $1.3 million.
Price: Sold for $1.31 Million
Location: Pleasantville, NY
Square Footage: 2,164 sq. ft.
Lot Size: 1.25 acres
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3 Bed/2.1 Bath
Unique Features: Large Central Fireplace, Circular Design, Mushroom-Style Carport, Backyard Patio
First and foremost, being able to say that you live in a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is reason enough to buy. However, this particular property has a quaint natural charm that you can’t find with many modern structures. The building itself is a blend of stone, wood, and glass, making it appear as a contemporary upgrade to a cottage you’d find in a fairy tale. The circular shape and mushroom-style roof add to the storybook aesthetic.
One of Wright’s main design elements was allowing the home space to breathe. While other houses can feel cramped or crowded, the Toyhill House is open and expansive. The tall glass windows enable you to see all around the property, and the high ceilings make it feel even more welcoming.
Another element we appreciate is the central fireplace. Wright firmly believed that the fireplace was vital to the family unit, so he made it a focal point in many of his designs. We can imagine curling up next to it on a cold winter night, sipping hot cocoa and reading a good book. Overall, even though this house is spacious, it still feels warm and cozy.
A Place Called Usonia
Yes, the Toyhill House recently sold for $1.3 million, but the fact is that the surrounding development was founded as affordable houses for soldiers returning from World War 2. Wright knew that these men needed homes for themselves and their families, and thus Usonia was born. The name of the neighborhood is actually an acronym, standing for the United States of North America, with an extra I to make it easier to say.
In total, 47 houses were built in Usonia, and many of them sold for far less than this one. Wright designed three of them, which have since been expanded and renovated to make them more opulent and modern. Remarkably, Toyhill is relatively untouched. Wright’s blend of natural elements and simplistic features are timeless, meaning that they can’t really be improved.
Another interesting tidbit – this is the first home to have a “carport.” Wright was actually the one who coined the term. However, rather than a dull square-shaped structure, this carport is as whimsical as the house. It looks like a giant mushroom growing out of the ground.