Amidst the moss-draped oaks of South Carolina’s Beaufort County, Auldbrass Plantation boasts a unique history intertwined with the legacy of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Originally established in the 18th century, the property transformed into a grand plantation by industrial engineer C. Leigh Stevens in the early 1900s. Stevens, a visionary with a penchant for Wright’s architectural style, commissioned the architect to design a sprawling complex on the estate.
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However, Wright’s plans for Auldbrass remained incomplete by the time of his and Stevens’ passing. The unfinished project fell into disrepair until 1986, when Hollywood producer Joel Silver stepped in. A lifelong admirer of Wright’s work, Silver – known for blockbuster films like “Die Hard” and “The Matrix” – had already made Wright’s Storer House in Los Angeles his personal residence.
An Ambitious Restoration Project
Driven by a passion for preserving Wright’s legacy, Silver embarked on an ambitious restoration project at Auldbrass. He enlisted the help of Eric Lloyd Wright, the architect’s grandson, to meticulously bring the original plans to life. Over the next three decades, Silver oversaw the restoration of existing structures, the reconstruction of lost buildings, and even the completion of elements Wright hadn’t gotten around to.
Auldbrass Plantation today stands as a testament to both Wright’s genius and Silver’s dedication. The complex features Wright’s signature geometric forms and harmonious integration with the natural surroundings. Though only open to the public for occasional tours, Auldbrass serves as a hidden gem for architecture enthusiasts and a unique vacation spot for Silver himself.
Additional Resources, Links and Products
- Auldbrass: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Southern Plantation by David G. De Long (Amazon book)
- Auldbrass on the South Carolina Lowcountry and Resort Islands website
- Open Land Trust website
- Fire at Auldbrass causes damage to outbuilding, by Delayna Earley, The Island News, November 27, 2004
