Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House | Bentonville

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House is a Usonian residential structure located in Bentonville, Arkansas.

The house was relocated from its original site in New Jersey to Bentonville, Arkansas, in 2015.

Visual Characteristics

The Bachman-Wilson House is a single-story residence constructed with concrete block, brick, and wood. Its design features a low-pitched, cantilevered roof and extensive use of glass to connect interior spaces with the surrounding landscape. The exterior walls are primarily a combination of natural wood and concrete block, with a distinctive red brick chimney as a central element. The interior layout is open-plan, characteristic of Wright's Usonian style, with built-in furniture and a strong horizontal emphasis.

Location & Access Logistics

The Bachman-Wilson House is situated within the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art grounds at 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712. It is accessible via Museum Way, which connects to Main Street in downtown Bentonville. Parking is available at the Crystal Bridges Museum. Public transport options to the museum include local bus routes that service the Bentonville area; specific route numbers and schedules should be verified with the local transit authority.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Bachman-Wilson House was originally constructed in 1954 in Warren, New Jersey. It was commissioned by Lloyd and Agnes Bachman. The house exemplifies Wright's Usonian principles, which aimed to provide affordable, well-designed homes for the middle class. The structure was meticulously disassembled and relocated to Bentonville in 2015 to preserve it and make it accessible to the public.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the interior of the Bachman-Wilson House to observe its Usonian design principles and integrated furnishings. Guided tours are available, providing detailed information on the architecture and Wright's philosophy. The house is situated on the grounds of Crystal Bridges Museum, allowing for exploration of the museum's art collection and surrounding nature trails.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main Crystal Bridges Museum building. Shade is provided by the surrounding trees and the house's roof overhang. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the museum grounds. Food and beverage options are available at the museum's restaurant and cafe.

Best Time to Visit

The house is open during Crystal Bridges Museum operating hours. For optimal natural light within the house, visiting during midday hours (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) is recommended. The surrounding grounds are accessible year-round, with spring and fall offering pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor areas.

Facts & Legends

The Bachman-Wilson House was originally built near the Millstone River in New Jersey and experienced significant flooding. Its relocation to Bentonville was partly motivated by the need to protect it from future flood damage, placing it on higher ground within the museum's landscape.

Nearby Landmarks

• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (0.1km North)
• The Momentary (1.5km West)
• Downtown Bentonville Square (1.2km West)
• Walmart Museum (1.3km West)
• Lawrence Grove Park (2.1km Southwest)