Frank Lloyd Wright's Buffalo Venture: From the Larkin Building to Broadcare City: A Catalogue of Buildings and Projects

By Jack Quinan

Product Details

• Hardcover, 211 pages

• Publisher: State University of New York Press

• Language: English

• Illustrations: Over 125 historical and contemporary photographs, architectural plans, and drawings

Book Description

Discover the definitive exploration of Frank Lloyd Wright's transformative architectural legacy in Buffalo, New York—a pivotal period that shaped the renowned architect's artistic evolution.

An Architectural Odyssey

Over a quarter-century, Frank Lloyd Wright created a remarkable series of designs in Buffalo that bridged his early Prairie period and his groundbreaking Modernist works. This comprehensive volume unveils the intricate story of Wright's Buffalo years, from 1903 to 1929.

Comprehensive Coverage

The book features an in-depth examination of:

• 24 buildings and projects

• Iconic structures including:

• Darwin D. Martin House

• Larkin Administration Building

• Graycliff

• William R. Heath House

• Gas Station for the Harris Oil Company

• Martin Family Blue Sky Mausoleum

• Walter V. Davidson Wayside Market

• Nearly 20 additional unbuilt projects

The Darwin D. Martin Connection

At the heart of this architectural journey is Wright's relationship with Darwin D. Martin, his most ardent supporter at the Larkin Company. Martin was not just a patron but a close friend who:

• Steered crucial commissions to Wright

• Provided generous financial support

• Played a pivotal role in Wright's early career

Scholarly Depth

Written by Jack Quinan, Distinguished Service Professor at the State University of New York at Buffalo, the book draws from:

• Extensive archival research

• Interviews conducted over decades

• Comprehensive architectural analysis

Visual Richness

Featuring over 125 visual elements:

• Historical photographs

• Contemporary images

• Architectural plans

• Detailed drawings

Perfect For

• Architecture enthusiasts

• Frank Lloyd Wright admirers

• Buffalo and Western New York history buffs

• Design and architectural historians

• Travelers interested in architectural tourism

Significance

This volume chronicles a critically underappreciated chapter in Wright's illustrious career, revealing how his Buffalo works influenced his subsequent architectural innovations in Arizona, California, and beyond.

Practical Guide

An excellent companion for architectural tours, particularly for visits to:

• Darwin Martin House

• Graycliff

• Other Wright sites in the Buffalo area

Uncover the architectural brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright's transformative Buffalo years