The John and Catherine Christian House completed in 1956 in West Lafayette represents one of Wright’s most fully realized Usonian designs. Named for winged seeds produced by the wooded lot, Samara features an abstract version of the winged seed design motif inside and outside the house.
When the Christians commissioned Wright to build their dream home, they promised to implement every aspect of his design over time as they could fund it. The couple was true to their word, and today Samara offers a rare comprehensive example of the famous architect’s work, from landscape and exterior details to specific interior furnishings, including china, bed linens, and more.
Today, the National Historic Landmark is co-stewarded by Indiana Landmarks and the John E. Christian Family Memorial Trust, Inc.
On the 90-minute guided tour of Samara, tourgoers will:
· Learn about Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision for affordable, middle-class housing, which he called Usonian.
· Explore the personal connection Dr. John and Catherine Christian had with Wright over the five-year design process for the house.
· Discover the many design elements Wright used to unite interior and exterior spaces, and other hallmarks of the Usonian style.
· Visit multiple areas of the house including the living room, dining room, kitchen (which Wright called the workspace), master bedroom and bath, and guest bedroom and bath. Visitors may also walk the wooded lot to explore the property’s exterior.
Tours last 90 minutes and depart from the carport area of Samara.
Refund requests must be received at least seven days in advance of the tour date.
Photo Credit: Nathaniel Allaire
