Frank Lloyd Wright’s  Architecture in Manchester

There are two known Usonian homes in New Hampshire and they both happen to be here in Manchester. However only one is accessible to the public and that is the Zimmerman House, which is owned by the Currier Museum of Art.  

Frank Lloyd Wright (FLW) used the term “usonian” to describe his design for a group of houses built for middle class families. These houses have only one story and no garage, (instead they have a carport) and not a lot of storage space. Typically, these Usonian Houses have an open floor concept, lots of natural light and plenty of use of brick and wood. They are FLW’s answer to a simpler lifestyle born in the years of the Depression. It is said that the Usonian style preceded the ranch style architecture.

Usonian Style

The Zimmerman House in Manchester was designed in 1950 for Dr Isadore and Lucille Zimmeman. The house is in pristine condition and has been left the way the Zimmermans outfitted it it when they lived in it.  Since Mrs Zimmerman left the house to the museum, all decoration, furniture, art and even china and clothing are exactly as they were. A glimpse of times past.

The layout of the house was carefully planned and the attention to detail is wonderful.  The brick house and the beautifully designed garden blend nicely together and in summer, the museum is occasionally offering  “twilight tours” with live music at the home. A very special treat indeed.

The Currier museum offers guided tours of the Zimmerman House between April and December. Only 12 people can participate per tour and there are 3 tours a day.

If you are planning to make an overnight trip out of it, we are offering a package that include a 1 night stay at our B&B ( of course cooked to order breakfast included) and tickets for the FLW tour, package also includes same day entrance to the Currier Museum of Art.  We are located a short 2 min walk from the Currier.