Those who appreciate the magnificent designs of Frank Lloyd Wright now have a limited-time opportunity to dive deeper into his life and work with a new guided tour at Taliesin West, home to the renowned architect’s beloved winter home and laboratory in Scottsdale.
The seasonal tour, Shelters in the Desert, runs through April 8 and leads groups along beautiful desert trails behind the Historic Core of Taliesin West, allowing guests to connect with the land where Wright and his students found inspiration for many of their designs. Previously exclusive to Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation members, the 90-minute tour offers insight into the landmarks and surrounding landscape of the historic site. Guests will get to see and learn about the unique desert shelters designed by Wright’s apprentices, as well as witness the architect’s “learning by doing” philosophy and his deep connection between architecture and nature.
Wright’s “desert utopia” in the Scottsdale foothills is a true reflection of the architect’s unique architectural style. His designs at Taliesin West stand in harmony with nature and feature local materials, including rock and desert sand, as well as light canvas roofs and redwood beams.
Today, Taliesin West is a UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark that preserves the buildings Wright and his apprentices purposefully designed and built. The Historic Core comprises Frank Lloyd Wright’s Office, the Living Quarters, Garden Room, Dining Cove and Sunset Terrace, while the grounds are also home to a drafting studio, dining facilities, three theaters, a workshop and residences for apprentices and staff.
According to the website, the Shelters in the Desert tour is held on select mornings and features an approximate ¾-mile walking path through unpaved desert trails for an intimate glimpse into the desert landscape that Wright called home and his approach to architecture and design.
Tickets start from $54 for adults, $38 for students, $27 for ages 6–12 and $43.20 for members. Tickets are limited and reservations are strongly recommended. Click here to purchase tickets and learn more.
