Property Description

“Crimson Beech,” the only Frank Lloyd Wright home in New York, stands since 1959 on the side of Lighthouse Hill above historic Richmond Town on Staten Island. The exterior has horizontal laid mahogany battens, horizontally accented brickwork, and typical Prairie eaves. Its coloring is very like the leaves of an ancient copper beach that stood next to it until it fell in a 1967 storm. Like Wright’s other “Utopian American” houses, it stretches itself along the ground, appearing as part of its natural surroundings. The site is so precipitous the house appears to be clinging to the cliff. Yet it is the perfect location for a long, low house at front, with broad expanses of glass that open onto two levels of terraces at the back. From two hundred feet above sea level and unobstructed by any buildings or trees is the full glory of the Lower New York and Raritan Bays and the Atlantic Ocean. Wright saw to every detail of his houses, down to the furnishings and draperies. “Crimson Beech” retains Wright’s furnishings, built-in cabinetry, mahogany paneled walls, and the mailbox designed by Wright. “Crimson Beech” is a recipient of a Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy Award and is a designated New York City Landmark.