Description of A Madole Home
Reprinted with kindest premission from a real estate listing
by Kathryn Joyce
In 1962 Howard Madole began construction of another one of
his uniquely designed homes, which he became well-known for in
Sedona, Arizona. Having spent considerable time studying the
architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright, and having spent time
at Taliesin West, Madole had come to interpret the organic forms
Wright espoused into his own designs.
The Usonian style of this home, which was Wright's favorite
style for its democratic qualities, makes a mid-century statement
about clean uninterrupted lines, and is set into its landscape
following one of the first 'Rules of Wright.' Walking in, the
individual will immediately feel the outside brought inside through
the span of windows that face the East. The organic quality of
the architecture is evident - stone walls [where the glass meets
the stone], wood ceilings, and the mature trees around the home
are welcomed inside through the abundant and large windows. Deep
overhangs that extend beyond the exterior keep the home comfortable
year round. The structure of the ceiling/roof is exceptionally
efficient as well. Huge laminate beams extend from their origins
inside the home, beyond the glass to stone piers in the garden
areas. The ceilings themselves are constructed of face-laminated
2" X 4"s,
and are throughout the entire home - even in the garage area.
The varied use of ceiling heights is an intentional differentiation
between public and private areas of the home. Madole followed
Wright's lead here as well. Wright abhorred the wasteful society
America had become, and he wanted his homes to reflect his streamlined
view. Madole embraced this philosophy of architecture. He incorporated
many passive solar features, relied on natural materials and
created an open floor plan that characterized the democratic
nature of society. The common rooms have high, open ceilings,
and as one enters the private areas of the residence, the ceiling
heights are at a more intimate height. Another feature is the
inconspicuous placement of the galley kitchen with the intention
of having the work area of the home disappear behind a pocket
door. The kitchen in a Usonian style home was not meant to be
the center of attention - it served a function.
To learn more
about Wright's Usonian homes, and the inspiration for Howard
Madole, read Frank Sargent's book Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian
Houses: The Case for Organic Architecture. |
