Wednesday, March 09, 2016

The Wright Tour Pt. 1



Recently I had the opportunity to take tour created by the Wright Trust in Chicago titled "California Craft: Frank Lloyd Wright & California Modern." How ironic that a group based in the midwest actually gets me to a location only two hours away from my home. The tour was based out of Pasadena, a city I had only visited briefly twice before. After this trip, I am kicking myself in the tush. The host hotel was the Westin Pasadena; while not the typical historical building I would normally choose, it was clean, well-appointed, and centrally located. No complaints here. Well, other than the pool being closed.



The interiors displayed a modern twist on the Craftsman-style that is pervasive throughout Pasadena.



As soon as I arrived, the fun began. Our first stop was the nearby Judson Studios.



For over a century, The Judson Studios has designed, created, and installed hand-crafted, stained, leaded and other unique forms of architectural glass. At the time we visited, they were also involved in a number of restoration projects. The building and property held a number of very cool architectural details.





We were able to see projects that were in the design phase:



As well as those in production:





So true:



Windows from Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple in Chicago were awaiting restoration:





We were unable to photograph the work the company had in progress for Shanghai Disney. Damn those Disney legal eagles.

After we returned from the tour, I took my own walking tour of Pasadena, which is where I will drop you off for today.



More Pasadena photos at my main website.

4 comments:

  1. How cool that you got to spend more time in Pasadena. I love this city. It really went through a revitalization during the early 1990's. It's beautiful... with amazing architecture. Nice post today my friend!

    Always your pal,
    Amazon Belle

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  2. Anonymous9:22 AM

    A Pasadena trip has been one of my long-time hopes too. Thanks for the push in the right direction.

    JG

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  3. How have you only been there twice? Second to L.A. its the most culturally rich area in the greater L.A. area. Was there on Sunday. Looks like you've got a few weekend trips in the near future. The Gamble House alone....

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  4. Bryan - Patience is a virtue. Tune in tomorrow for what you seek!

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