Frank Lloyd Wright: Smith House: A Usonian Dream

A jewel of a house that epitomizes Wright’s perfect American home for modern living.

Smith House stands as one of the best-preserved Usonian homes open to the public—a clear expression of Wright’s “Usonian” vision for small, affordable, self-contained homes. 

Designed by Wright in 1949 and completed in 1950, the house reflects his belief that well-designed architecture should be accessible to all. Conceived as a compact, self-contained environment, it demonstrates Wright’s mastery of space through built-ins, pocket doors, and a seamless relationship between indoors and out. 

The Smith House retains its original Wright-designed furnishings, along with decorative works by artists associated with Cranbrook Academy of Art. This volume celebrates the integrity of the home, the story of the Smith family, and the efforts of Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research to preserve and share it with the public. Beautifully illustrated and deeply researched, it presents a timeless model for thoughtful, human-centered modern living.