Frank Lloyd Wright's Sondern-Adler House Is Heading to Auction

The Kansas City home—previously listed at $1.7M— is now going up for auction with no reserve.

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On August 12, bidders can take their best shot at owning the Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian that sits at 3600 Belleview Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri. Those interested can simply register with Heritage Auctions ahead of the sale, and though there isn't a starting minimum, it'll likely attract stiff competition.    

The residence was built for Clarence Sondern in 1940. Originally only 900 square feet, the home was expanded to 2,965 square feet in 1948 at the request of the second owner, Arnold Adler. The Adlers reached out to Wright and commissioned an addition to the original structure. The work included a new entry, a carport, an extra bedroom, bathrooms, and additional living space. The house is set on a small hill, so the expanded living room was built a few steps down from the rest of the structure and features a higher ceiling as a result.

The L-shaped home is a classic example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian style. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The Sondern-Adler House, as the home is known, features a flat roof with a cantilevered overhang, clerestory windows, and is constructed from red tidewater cypress and brick—adding an organic element to the L-shaped, Usonian design. Set on a 1.4-acre private lot and surrounded by greenery, the home is a simple and beautifully executed example of Wright’s work.  

The flat roof cantilevers out over a stone walkway. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

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A grand glass door serves as the entrance to the home. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

Large windows, a rich wood paneled ceiling, and brick make up this cozy living room. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

Clerestory windows line the top edge of the room. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the stone terrace and provide a strong connection with the outdoors. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

 The home features large windows and doors that open out onto three stone terraces, providing a perfect spot for entertaining.

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

A slightly more formal great room is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows.  Note how the sofa is built into the steps.

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The elegant space is anchored by a brick, wood-burning fireplace. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

A few steps lead up to the dining room area. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The dining area which is just off the kitchen, which features a built-in banquette.

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The original midcentury kitchen is in good condition, but could benefit from updates. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The kitchen offers plenty of storage. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

A cozy office space boasts a corner fireplace. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

A sitting room.

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

The home is elegantly set into its surroundings and overlooks a serene garden patio with a koi pond. 

Cory Finley with SEVEN IMAGES, 2018

3600 Belleview Avenue is up for auction by Heritage Auctions on August 12th in Kansas City. 

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Frank Lloyd Wright