Frank Lloyd Wright’s Kentuck Knob is an architectural masterpiece nestled in the rolling hills of Stewart Township near Chalk Hill, Fayette County, Pennsylvania. The house, which is also known as the Hagan House, was commissioned by the Hagan family in 1953 and completed three years later, serving as their home for the next three decades.

The story of Kentuck Knob begins with its location, an extraordinary spot chosen by Wright himself. Standing at an elevation of 2,050 feet above sea level, this house offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Youghiogheny River Gorge. In designing this home, Wright was inspired not just by the site’s natural beauty but also by its cultural significance as a historical Native American settlement.

Kentuck Knob is an excellent example of Wright’s Usonian ideal, a concept that emphasized affordable and efficient housing for middle-class Americans. Constructed using native sandstone and red cypress from North Carolina, the house features open floor plans, extensive use of glass to bring the outdoors in, and custom-built furnishings crafted by Wright himself.

As you stand at the entrance of Kentuck Knob, take note of the low horizontal lines that characterize many of Wright’s designs. This feature helps create a sense of connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while also making the home appear more grounded in its surroundings. Inside, you’ll find a cozy living area with an iconic fireplace designed by Wright as the focal point of the room. The warm glow of the fire complements the soft lighting from large windows that frame panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The Hagan family enjoyed their home for 30 years, taking advantage of its unique features such as built-in storage spaces and cleverly designed window seats. They also had access to an extensive collection of artwork and sculptures displayed throughout the house, many of which were created by notable artists like Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi.

Today, visitors can explore Kentuck Knob on guided tours that highlight its historical background, cultural significance, and unique attributes. As you walk through this architectural gem, imagine yourself living in harmony with nature - a concept central to Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy and vision for modern American homes.