The iconic Walker Guesthouse, a mid-century gem crafted by architect Paul Rudolph, is now up for grabs at a price tag of $2 million, awaiting the perfect buyer to call it home.
Brown Harris Stevens, a renowned real estate agency, has taken on the listing for this one-bedroom, one-bathroom modernist marvel, hailing it as a “monumental work of radical design and masterful skill” and “one of the most important architectural designs of the twentieth century by one of its most influential architects.” Described as a ground-breaking work of art, this architectural gem is a rare find that promises a unique living experience for those with a discerning taste for design.
The Walker Guesthouse, a 24-foot cube, first saw the light of day in 1952 on the picturesque Sanibel Island in Florida. Constructed from wood, steel, and glass, this lightweight pavilion boasts a distinctive feature—a rigging system of pulleys and seven red counterweights that allowed for the control of a dozen giant shutters, transforming the home’s exterior into an adjustable, multifunctional space that adapts to its surroundings.
A Legacy of Art and Architecture
Commissioned by Walter W. Walker, the grandson of the Minnesota lumber baron T.B. Walker and founder of the renowned Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, the Walker Guesthouse has a rich history steeped in art and architecture. It remained within the Walker family until 2019 when it was auctioned off at Sotheby’s design auction for $920,000, eventually finding its way to a buyer near Palm Springs. Listing agent Christ Pomeroy, in an interview with the New York Post, emphasized the guesthouse’s status as a “work of architectural art,” underscoring its enduring appeal to aficionados of design and innovation.
The Walker Guesthouse may currently be located in the quaint village of Rhinebeck, New York, but its new owner will have the freedom to place it in almost any setting around the globe, thanks to its versatile design and timeless aesthetic. The $2 million price tag includes not just the structure itself but also a selection of furniture pieces meticulously curated by Rudolph for the Guesthouse, such as a desk, coffee table, director’s chairs, and a bookshelf, along with the architectural plans and additional drawings that offer a glimpse into the architect’s creative process.
However, as noted by listing agent Christ Pomeroy, the cost of shipping this architectural masterpiece is an additional expense that the buyer will need to consider when making their purchase decision.
Paul Rudolph: A Visionary Architect
Paul Rudolph, the visionary architect behind the Walker Guesthouse, rose to fame as a “starchitect” known for his Brutalist concrete buildings and mega-structures that defined the architectural landscape of the 1950s and ’60s. Appointed as the chair of Yale University’s prestigious architecture department in 1957, Rudolph’s influence on the architectural world was profound, shaping the future of design with his innovative approach and bold creations. His legacy lives on through masterpieces like the Walker Guesthouse, which has garnered attention from architectural publications such as Progressive Architecture, Architectural Forum, and Architectural Record.
As a testament to Rudolph’s enduring impact, the Walker Guesthouse has been featured in a retrospective exhibition titled “Materialized Space” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcasing the architect’s groundbreaking work to a global audience until March 16. The guesthouse’s inclusion in this prestigious showcase further cements its status as a significant contribution to architectural history, inviting art enthusiasts and design aficionados to appreciate its beauty and significance.
Editor’s Note: February 13, 2024: A previous version of this story misspelled the architect’s name. It is Paul Rudolph, not Randolph. ARTnews regrets the error.
In conclusion, the Walker Guesthouse stands as a testament to the visionary genius of Paul Rudolph, offering a rare opportunity for a discerning buyer to own a piece of architectural history that continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its timeless design and innovative spirit.
