Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation selected Sasaki to revitalize iconic Taliesin West in Arizona, USA

Sasaki prioritized sustainable design measures to minimize the site's ecological impact

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation commissioned Sasaki with the task of creating a comprehensive design for Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona, United States. Recognized as a world heritage site, Taliesin West held significant cultural and architectural importance as the winter retreat and experimentation hub of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The design aimed to honor the heritage of Taliesin West while ensuring its longevity and relevance for future generations. Located in the Sonoran Desert outside Scottsdale, Arizona, Taliesin West served as a living memorial to Frank Lloyd Wright's life and work. Constructed between 1937 and 1959, the site provided inspiration for Wright and his apprentices. Sasaki, a Boston-based design firm, sought to pay homage to the site by formulating a unified strategy and detailed documentation to guide future developments. Their approach adopted an adaptive design philosophy that respected the indigenous ecology of the site and aligned with the new interpretive plan developed from extensive research conducted in 2019.

As part of their plan, Sasaki proposed an interpretive master plan introducing new forms of engagement and public programs to enhance the site's cultural and educational value. The comprehensive approach aimed to safeguard the enduring significance of Taliesin West as an architectural landmark, revitalizing it into a vibrant cultural hub. By honoring Wright's legacy of innovation and sustainability, the plan sought to preserve and celebrate the site's architectural heritage.