NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2023
Two iconic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian homes for sale
GALESBURG, Michigan – Never in the history of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture have two neighboring homes been offered, together, in one sale — the Samuel & Dorothy Eppstein and the Eric & Pat Pratt homes.
Nestled in the prestigious 5-home Galesburg Country Homes community, aka “The Acres”, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a beautiful 70-acre setting with mature trees, rolling hills, and loads of serenity and situated in the same region as Wright’s Meyer May House in Grand Rapids, the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, and the lovely beach towns of South Haven and Saugatuck.
This is a rare opportunity to own two iconic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian homes, the Samuel & Dorothy Eppstein and the Eric & Pat Pratt Houses, located in the prestigious The Galesburg Country Homes, aka, ”The Acres” community on a beautiful 70-acre setting.
These houses exemplify Wright’s signature design principles, seamlessly blending nature, form, and function. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of architectural history and become a custodian of Frank Lloyd Wright’s extraordinary vision and a member of the unique family of Frank Lloyd Wright – recognized by the American Institute of Architects as “the greatest American architect of all time” – home owners. Once in a generation opportunity and truly remarkable offering. We are thrilled to present, not one, but two iconic, neighboring Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian homes.
Both the Eppstein and Pratt houses are stunning representations of Wright’s Usonian vision and beautiful examples of mid-century architecture. Each home was constructed by the original homeowners, under the supervision of Wright himself. As such, the iconic properties are meticulously crafted, thoughtfully and gloriously restored between 2016 and 2021 by their current owners, Marika Broere and Tony Hillebrandt.
Contrary to many of Wright’s Usonian homes, these two still have their original footprints. From a technical perspective, both houses have been lifted to the 21st century. Both are wonderful examples of Wright’s signature design principles — seamlessly blending nature, form, and function.
From the organic integration of the houses with their surroundings to the innovative use of space, each house is both an architectural gem, a unique piece of artwork, and a comfortable space ready for new owners to create lasting memories.
Flooded with natural light, the 1953 Eppstein House is gracious and welcoming with its low-slung profile, horizontal lines, and expansive windows that truly marry outdoor-indoor living. A gorgeous, 10-foot floor to ceiling glass facade opens to an incredible terrace which overlooks a peaceful meadow, an expanse of green and blooming wildflowers. Two additional terraces flank the home, perfect for outdoor entertaining or taking in the woodland views. The interior includes 2 amazing and comfortable living spaces, complete with fireplaces and beautifully restored built-in FLW designed furniture. Three large bedrooms, each nestled into the exterior berm provide cozy and restful retreats.
The home is a harmonious blend of materials, warm and inviting interior spaces, and a seamless connection between indoor-outdoor living areas. It’s exterior structure, concrete and masterfully restored mahogany detail and welcoming terraces is simply gorgeous. This is an amazing opportunity to live in a rare property that has captivated admirers for decades.
Adjoining the Eppstein property by lovely pastureland, the 1951 Eric and Pat Pratt House beckons with its distinctive design, featuring clean lines, and meticulously restored mahogany exterior. Driving up to the residence from “The Acres” single lane path, the property immediately recognizable — 2,200 square-foot residence includes an expansive single level, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, a lovely library/music room and a larger, common entertainment space complete with 10-foot ceilings, floor to ceiling windows and a beautiful fireplace – just stunning.
The glorious cantilevered overhang is indicative of the Usonian style as are the floor to ceiling windows and glass doors that soften the lines between interior and exterior/greenspace. Adjoining the main residence, there is a sizable workshop/office/studio that once served as the original owner’s pottery studio. Like the Eppstein House, the Pratt residence is welcoming and a peaceful, with an open floor-plan and cozy, calming bedchambers.
The outdoor space is extraordinary with multiple terraces, beautiful views, and the occasional deer and playful fawns that thrive in the enormous, park-like setting. Both homes embody the timeless elegance of Wright’s vision, where every detail has been carefully crafted to create an atmosphere of serenity and beauty. From the innovative use of space-saving built-ins to the integration of unique architectural features, these properties offers a truly extraordinary living experience. There are endless possibilities – -a private residence, a multi-generational compound, or an unparalleled investment opportunity.
As a shared owner of “The Acres”, itself a historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, the new owners will enjoy the tranquility, privacy, shared community spaces, and the pride of being part of a unique legacy. The Acres is conveniently located halfway between Detroit and Chicago, with Grand Rapids airport at 65 miles distance, Kalamazoo airport at 11 miles, and Battle Creek at 16 miles.
The asking price for the pair is $4.5 million. The listing agents are Victoria Krause Schutte of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate in Oak Park, https://www.atproperties.com/23134225/11090-hawthorne-drive-galesburg-michigan-49053-swm and Fred Taber of Jaqua Realtors in Portage, Mich. https://www.jaquarealtors.com/real-estate/11090—hawthorne-drive-galesburg-mi-49053/23134225/141937204
(For HD photos please contact Marika Broere at Eppsteinhouse@gmail.com)