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Wright's windows return home to Lake Geneva |
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Written by Weekender
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Wednesday, 09 November 2011 14:12 |
Two windows designed by Frank Lloyd Wright have been installed above the doors at the Lake Geneva Public Library. The windows were original to the Geneva Hotel, which was razed in 1968 to make way for the Geneva Towers, now located on the site. Terry Mayer/staff photo.
LAKE GENEVA — Two windows saved from the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Geneva Hotel, are back home. The windows, on permanent loan from the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning, are on display at the Lake Geneva Public Library.
The hotel was razed after the Lake Geneva Plan Commission, in 1968, approved the plans for a high-rise building to be erected on the site of the hotel.
The Foundation and Friends of the Library hosted a celebration of the installation and an open house program Oct. 22 at the library which was designed by James R. Dresser, a student and protege of the famous architect.
The windows provide a view into the visionary designs of Frank Lloyd Wright.
Dresser’s granddaughter, Olivia Hare, and Allen Hermansen, a member of the family that owned The Geneva Hotel from 1939 to 1964 were both present at the open house.
Hermansen shared memories of the hotel, designed in 1911, including the prices of his favorite menu items.
Hare spoke about her grandfather’s style of architecture, and his connection to Wright, who was his mentor. Dresser’s style was both organic and inspired by Wright. These design characteristics are visible in the Lake Geneva library.
“The building, completely in Dresser style, gently opens itself to you, inviting you to come in and explore its space as it expands and widens out,” Hare said. “You’re greeted by the expansive view of floor to ceiling glass, ... a breathtaking view of beautiful Lake Geneva, and you are — whether you realize it or not — invited to sit and read awhile as the natural flood of daylight streams in. You could almost forget you’re inside looking out or outside looking in.”
Dresser studied at Taliesin, Wright’s design school in Spring Green, but the two men also were friends. Wright even walked Dresser’s wife Barbara down the aisle on their wedding day.
Hare said her grandfather was fond of Wright and learned the principles of architecture, love and life well. He always strove to keep the art in the architecture.
According to Hare, the library, designed early in Dresser’s career, was, “very, very dear to his heart. He spoke so fondly of the project and the people here. My hope is that the library will continue to be enjoyed for many, many more years to come.”
Dresser’s wife, Barbara Dresser, and his daughter, Jamie Hegel, also were in attendance.
Guests also included Frank Landi, a well-respected local architectural historian, who instigated the library’s permanent loan of the windows.
Also in attendance were Duanne Lafrenz, president of the library board of trustees; Mayor Jim Connors; Robert Greenstreet, faculty member of the UW-Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning; Larry Yopp of Dovetail Construction Inc., who designed and crafted the frame and dedication plaque for the windows; and Frank Scott, owner of Sign of the Unicorn, who assisted in coordinating the installation of the windows.
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