Art vs. Architecture (107)David Arena, his wife, Jillayne, and their two children live on Milwaukee's south side in a house that is considered an architectural landmark. The home was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most prominent architects of the 20th century. The Arenas have carefully studied and maintained the home's architecture—down to the smallest details.
Out on the West Coast, David and Stacy Hertz built their Venice, Calif., home based on David's environmentally friendly design theories. The couple applied green building principles, natural ventilation and radiant heating in the design of their house. In addition, almost every wall, floor and countertop is made of recycled materials.
The Washington, DC abode of the painter Sam Gilliam and his partner Annie Gawlak is designed to showcase Gilliam's art. The home has an open, lofty feel and allows for plenty of natural light.
Finally, in Hudson, NY, Frank Faulkner's home was rescued from the wrecking ball. Faulkner, who has a passion for old, overlooked homes, saved the once-condemned house and made it his own. He creates a unique look there, incorporating his love for Federal and Greek revival style architecture and juxtaposing contemporary pieces with period pieces.
Frank Lloyd Wright Facts:
- Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) designed more than 420 buildings, including homes, churches and museums.
- Wright's designs were influenced by the architects Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe.
- Wright's window designs included geometric figures symbolizing life.
Resources:
www.frankllyodwright.org
Venice Architect Facts:
- The adoption of cost-effective energy technologies can reduce overall energy consumption and save billions of dollars.
- Traditional paints are toxic and can cause adverse reactions such as allergies, asthma, nausea, headaches and skin irritation.
- The skyway is a network of catwalks in Minneapolis designed to protect pedestrians from inclement weather.
Suburban Art Piece Facts:
- Sam Gilliam uses form, design, color, scale and visual and tactile appeal to create abstract art.
- Structural changes sometimes require formal consent—from community groups, gas and phone companies and the insurance agency.
- Floors painted with either yacht or floor paints tend to wear longer.
- Add unique hardware to newly painted cabinets for a less costly upgrade.
Federal Redo Facts:
- Extra-long curtains help prevent cool drafts along the floor.
- A chair featured in this segment was once part of a box seat in New York's original Metropolitan Opera House.
- Caution: bleaching floors requires the use of toxic materials. Be sure to wear protective clothing, work in a well-ventilated area and follow the proper environmental guidelines for disposal of chemicals.
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