Views May 2010 : Page 115The original architect, Arthur J. Kelsey, from Cincinnati, Ohio was a working student and friend of Frank Lloyd Wright for many years. This was officially confirmed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation in 1989, after years of doubt expressed by those who have studied Wright's work and the works of his students. The distinct design influence of Wright (who, by the time Mr. Kelsey was hired to design the Lodge, was the most cele- brated architect in American history) is clearly evident in the original one level facade of beautiful native stone, chestnut wood, and hand-cut cedar shakes. This original portion of the Lodge is now aptly called the “Frank Lloyd Wright Wing.” The rooms on this wing reveal the original exposed pieces of chiseled granite and wood, and all the rooms are now com- pletely shaded in the old growth conifers and hardwoods that make for cool living during the day, including the warmer summer months! At night, even during the summer, the cool temperatures on the Highlands Plateau make for some great sleeping with or without the windows open. Although the “Skyline Lodge Wing” and the “Eagle's Nest Wing” offer A/C, I prefer the windows open for “natural” mountain air conditioning! Beyond the history and the environmentally sensitive design created 80 years ago, before the now trendy term "green" was ever conceived, the views the Lodge offers con- tinues to draw loyal customers back year after year. The Skyline Lodge breeds a certain loyalty in those who value the views and peace and quiet here, high atop Flat Mountain. The history connected to the Skyline Lodge is a part of its overall charm. The original owner, Howard Randall, com- missioned Arthur Kelsey to create a luxu- rious mountain retreat in 1929. At that MA Y 2010 115 Publication List |
