Apprentice House in Montgomery AL

johnnyapollo · Post by **johnnyapollo** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 7:47 am

I was sent this listing in Montgomery, AL (it's a real estate listing and I'm not the seller). I thought about the similarity of this house to some of Robert Green's designs and upon further research, it turns out the architect Dean Vollendorf is/was indeed a Wright Fellow - sort of Alabama's version of Robert Green (in GA). I thougtht some of you might be interested - check out the link for photos. Make sure you load the virtual tour - lots of good detailed images in there.

The Montgomery, Alabama neighborhood of Cloverdale a few outstanding midcentruy modern homes. Here is one that is on the market, very unusual: http://www.hatteam.com/house_hunter/house.asp?id=1204 . This is the text of the webpage and a virtual tour is available.

Own a bit of Montgomery history, "The Flintstone House" as it is known to the locals. Designed by Dean Vollendorf this Mid-Century Modern home is a prime example of Frank Lloyd Wright influenced style of organic architecture. Inside you will find splendid views from this circular layout where all rooms, except the one front bedroom, open to the circular shaped pool area. Components that are used in the design of the home are Phillipine mahogany, Marble from North Alabama, skylights, and the most unusual bar stools. This is truly the most unusual house and a must see! The floor plan is great for entertaining and the house itself is such a conversation piece. Although this property has numerous issues, once inside, you will appreciate its uniqueness, charm and character. Note, Pebbles and Bam Bam not included.

-- John

DRN · Post by **DRN** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 9:01 am

Thanks for posting this.
I see influences of both Wright and Goff. Wright in the wood detailing; Goff in the general form and the role the stone forms play in the composition. I particularly like how the minimally framed mitered corner glass blurs the enclosure between the window walls and the stone masses.
Great house.

jlesshafft · Post by **jlesshafft** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 9:21 am

Wonder what the "numerous issues" entail?

DRN · Post by **DRN** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 1:03 pm

In the pics, I saw some staining of woodwork indicating past or present roof leaking and the pool shell looked to be in need of replastering and possibly some structural repair.

SDR · Post by **SDR** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 4:29 pm

It's a trick to achieve a rough and shaggy stone surface that nevertheless retains an orderly, "architectural" appearance. That trick wasn't available to the masons who built this interesting and unusual house, I'd say. Still, what was built seems to be internally consistent -- and the contrast between stone, wood and glass is as compelling here as in any of Wright's work.

Thanks for the peek ! SDR