Welcome to Still Bend, also known as the Bernard and Fern Schwartz House, a remarkable piece of architectural history nestled in the serene landscape of Two Rivers, Wisconsin. This unique Usonian-style home, designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, stands as a testament to his vision of creating harmonious living spaces that blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings.
The story of Still Bend begins in 1938 when Life magazine published a feature called ‘Eight Houses for Modern Living.’ Among the designs was a modern home envisioned by Wright for the Blackbourn family of Minneapolis. Though the Blackbourns ultimately chose a different design, this blueprint caught the eye of Bernard Schwartz, a local businessman in Two Rivers. Inspired by Wright’s vision, Schwartz commissioned the architect to bring his design to life, leading to the construction of the Schwartz House in 1940.
Wright’s design philosophy is evident throughout the house, with its integration of natural materials like red brick and Tidewater cypress, expansive glass windows, and built-in furniture that optimizes space. One of the standout features of the house is its radiant floor heating, a pioneering element at the time.
The Schwartz family resided here for three decades, during which the home became a lively center for gatherings and cultural exchanges. Over time, the house transitioned from a private residence to a vacation rental, allowing architecture enthusiasts from around the world to experience Wright’s genius firsthand.
In the broader context of architectural history, Still Bend is a significant example of Wright’s Usonian homes, which aimed to provide affordable yet distinctive designs for middle-income families. Today, the house is not only a cherished landmark in Two Rivers but also a celebrated piece of America’s architectural heritage, offering a glimpse into Wright’s enduring legacy.
