The Raymond Carlson House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1950, stands as an intriguing example of his late-period residential work in Phoenix, Arizona. This unique home was built for Raymond Carlson, a Stanford graduate who became the longtime editor of the influential Arizona Highways Magazine. As with many private Wright properties, visiting the site offers a chance to experience the location and context of the home, which is situated not far from Wright’s famous First Christian Church.
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Plan Your Visit
Location of the Carlson House
The Carlson House is located at 1123 West Palo Verde Drive in Phoenix, AZ. While locating the address is straightforward, potential visitors should note that the home is situated on a residential street in an established neighborhood.
Tours
Please be aware that this Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home is a privately owned residence and is not open to the public for tours. We kindly ask that you respect the owners’ privacy and refrain from trespassing on the property.
Hotels in Phoenix
- Arizona Biltmore
- Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix Convention Center
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites
- Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix
- Staybridge Suites Phoenix – Biltmore Area
Arizona Highways Connection
The original owner, Raymond Carlson, who, after graduating from Stanford University, got a job with the Arizona Highway department and ultimately became editor of the Arizona Highways Magazine. His long tenure with the magazine made him a key figure in promoting Arizona’s natural beauty and history.
The home itself is architecturally significant as a residential expression of Wright’s later style, featuring a construction of four-by-four posts and Masonite infill panels, as described in the Frank Lloyd Wright Field Guide. However, we advise visitors to set realistic expectations for viewing. Due to mature landscaping and a high, privacy wall surrounding the property, virtually none of the architectural details are visible from the street.
The property underwent extensive renovation recently (circa 2005) to the tune of about $1 million, ensuring the structure remains well-preserved by its current owners. While pictures of the exterior are available online, only those invited inside by appointment will be able to appreciate the full scale of this Wright design.
Additional Resources and Inspired Products
Find unique products, books, and gifts inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy at our Amazon storefront: Wright at Home!
- A Fascinating Story about Former Arizona Highways Editor Raymond Carlson in World War II
- Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona by Lawrence W. Cheek
- Arizona’s Scenic Seasons : Remembering with Raymond : Selected Writings of Raymond Carlson (Amazon)
Return to the complete list of Frank Lloyd Wright sites in Arizona
