When I was a kid, my dream job was to be an architect. Those dreams faded when I became an adult, but my love and admiration for architecture did not. It’s impossible to be a fan of architecture and not be familiar with Frank Lloyd Wright, the famous American architect who designed original and innovative structures during the first half of the 20th century and whose influence is still seen in architecture and design today. One of Wright’s most famous works was Fallingwater, a home he designed for a family in the Allegheny Mountains in southwestern PA, built over a water fall. I have visited several of Wright’s designed structures during my travels, including his first home and studio in Chicago, but Fallingwater tops them all. Wright believed in designing structures that were in harmony with humanity and its environment and no structure represents that more than Fallingwater. As we toured the home, we were continually reminded both inside and outside of the house about this harmony with the natural world. My kids also joined us on the tour, which was a real reward for them, especially for my daughter who says her dream job is to be an architect or designer. Here’s hoping her dream doesn’t fade like mine.
