Can I Copy a Frank Lloyd Wright House Without Paying Royalties?

The question of legally copying a Frank Lloyd Wright house without paying royalties is a common one among enthusiasts and homeowners interested in recreating the architect's iconic designs. Unfortunately, it is illegal to copy his original plans, as the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation holds a tight rein on the intellectual property rights.

Reproducing Historic Houses

Reproducing any historic house, including those designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is a complex task due to legal and practical challenges. While some may aim to create an exact replica, reproductions more often resemble the style of the original than they match it precisely. Projects like the tribute to Wright's Robie House provide a glimpse into this issue, where the result is an approximate image rather than a true architectural accomplishment. This tribute may be likable, but it struggles to match the original's architectural significance and creativity, essentially serving more as a joke than a true homage.

Legal and Copyright Implications

In the United States, the copyright legal framework for built architecture was significantly different before 1990. Technically, Wright's built structures can be duplicated during their initial creation period, before 1990. However, this freedom is constrained by ongoing intellectual property rights. The original architectural plans are protected by copyright, which came into effect in 1909, meaning that the simplest way to duplicate a Wright house legally is to use drawings and designs that are not controlled by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

Copyright and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation

Most of Wright's drawings are copyrighted. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation held the copyrights, and initially took the stance that building a new house using their copyrighted plans was creating a derivative work, subject to royalties. Recently, the foundation sold the physical drawings and files to Columbia University, but the foundation retains the rights. Even with access to the original drawings, modern construction requires adherence to current building codes, making it difficult to replicate an exact design.

Branding and Legal Disputes

Even if you obtain the necessary permissions and drawings, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation is highly protective of the Wright brand, and you would likely not be able to call your house a "Wright House." The foundation would require you to use their approved architects for any modifications necessary to meet modern building codes. An example of this is the Massaro House, built in 2003-2007 using original Wright drawings. Frequent disputes and a lawsuit led to the homeowner being able to only label the home as "Wright Inspired," and the foundation's refusal to add it to the official lists of Wright's built structures. Many purists argue that the house, with its construction details, is "not a real Wright," but the impact on the market value of such a designation is substantial.

Building in the Wright Idiom

For those willing to invest the time and resources, building a house in the Wright idiom could be a viable option. Hiring an architect to design something in Wright's style can be a rewarding project, focusing on achieving a functional and aesthetically pleasing design without the legal and financial constraints. It's a definitive way to celebrate and explore Wright's legacy, despite the challenges that come with trying to replicate his designs exactly.

Key Points:

Copyright of architectural plans: 1909 Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation holds rights until recently Modern building codes hinder exact replication Foundation's strict protection of the Wright brand Potential legal and financial implications of unauthorized use