Although Cedar Rock State Park is certainly a gorgeous setting, what actually drew me to The Lowell and Agnes Walter Estate - and this Iowa park - was the architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. A fan of his architecture for decades and fresh off a trip along Wisconsin's Frank Lloyd Wright Trail, I made a detour, here, during my return trip to the Kansas City area. Boy, am I glad I did!
Wright designed almost every aspect of this estate, which reflects his Usonian architectural style - from his signature red tile mounted on an outside wall, to furnishings throughout the house. Today, mature trees dot the property, and a long flight of stairs leads to a boathouse.
Wright designed almost every aspect of this estate, which reflects his Usonian architectural style - from his signature red tile mounted on an outside wall, to furnishings throughout the house. Today, mature trees dot the property, and a long flight of stairs leads to a boathouse.
 | In May 2017, this structure received a $200,000 restoration, making this one of only five Wright-designed boathouses and the only one in its original condition. More than 6,000 bricks were restored during the project. In addition to the boat launch 'room' the small brick building features an expansive deck that overlooks the Wapsipinicon River. There's also fireplace and a tiny kitchen area as well as sleep and lounging quarters. |
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With light streaming in through several skylights, and plush stools beside one wall, the narrow front hallway ended near the stunning living room. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrapped this space in natural views. Additional light poured through wide narrow windows above indoor planter boxes. Multiple seating areas paired low white upholstered chairs and benches, with wood-grain tabletops. A grand piano stood near the fireplace and a cozy couch.
Another long, narrow hallway led to the bathroom and bedrooms. In the hall, a brick wall stood opposite of tall built-in, wood-faced cabinets. Large and transom windows flooded each bedroom with light. A horizontal wood plank wall stood behind each bed too. This was my favorite bedroom, of the two. In the spacious, fully-equipped kitchen, open shelves displayed a gorgeous collection of copper, and sunlight streamed in from above the stove.
Tours are available at the Walter Estate, May to October and on Thursday through Sunday. Make your reservation by email or by phone (319-934-3572). Suggested donations for tours are $5 per person.
Please note: As a writer associated with the travel industry, I received a complimentary tour, for the purpose of this review. While it has not influenced this post, I wish to disclose all potential conflicts of interest.
Please note: As a writer associated with the travel industry, I received a complimentary tour, for the purpose of this review. While it has not influenced this post, I wish to disclose all potential conflicts of interest.
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