Frank Lloyd Wright designed a single home in Alabama – The Rosenbaum House! It was one of his classic Usonian homes which was designed in 1939 for Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum and referred to as one of the “purest examples of Wright’s unique style.” Constructed of cypress, glass and brick, the original house was completed in 1940. Wright added two new wings as per a request by the owners in 1948. This house is a significant example of Wright’s Usonian architecture. It is a well-preserved example of Wright’s work and is an important part of the history of Alabama architecture.
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Plan Your Visit
Location
The Rosenbaum House is located at 601 Riverview Dr in Florence, Alabama.
Tour
The house is open to the public for guided tours. Ticket sales and a gift shop are located across the street. For more information, visit WrightinAlabama.com.
Nearby Lodging Options
The connection between Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture and the surrounding landscape is a core element of the Rosenbaum House experience, and extending that local flavor into your stay makes for a perfect trip. For a high-end, immersive stay right in the heart of historic downtown Florence, the GunRunner Boutique Hotel offers an exceptionally curated, upscale experience. Featuring uniquely styled suites that celebrate the history and culture of the Shoals, it provides a distinctive, design-forward atmosphere just minutes from the Rosenbaum House.
Alternatively, if you prefer sweeping water views and full-scale resort amenities, the Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa delivers a luxury experience overlooking the Tennessee River. This Marriott property boasts a full-service spa, fine dining, and a resort-style pool, making it an excellent retreat after a day of architectural touring.
Things to do near the Rosenbaum House
Just five miles down the road from the Rosenbaum House in Sheffield, you can explore a legendary piece of American music history with the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio Tour. This guided excursion takes you inside the iconic 3614 North Jackson Highway location, where the famous session musicians known as “The Swampers” shaped the sounds of the 1970s. You will step directly into the historic, vintage-decorated studio where rock and soul royalty—including the Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, and Paul Simon—recorded some of their greatest hits. It is an easy, authentic addition to your local itinerary that pairs the region’s legendary musical legacy perfectly with your architectural tour.
Understanding Wright’s Usonian Architecture
Wright’s Usonian style typically included flat roofs, large overhanging eaves, plenty of glass and flowing space.
But perhaps one of the most incredible innovations for the time was his use of radiant heat provided by hot water that circulated though pipes imbedded in the concrete floors of the home. Usonian homes were also designed to be smaller homes, but allow for additions as families grew and needed more space.
Stanley & Mildred were the sole owners of the home until 1999. It has been meticulously restored and is now a museum piece, illustrating Wright’s classic Usonian style.
Additional Resources and Frank Lloyd Wright Gifts
Find unique products, books, and gifts inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House at our Amazon storefront: Wright at Home