Prepare to be Spired Away! The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale is a Must-See Landmark! Have you ever seen something so unique, so striking, that it just stops you in your tracks? That's exactly what the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale, Arizona does! This isn't just another landmark; it's a testament to architectural genius and a fantastic photo opportunity that you absolutely shouldn't miss. Standing proudly at the corner of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, this 125-foot tall spire is a breathtaking sight. Originally designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright in 1957 as part of his ambitious "Oasis" concept for the Arizona State Capitol, the spire wasn't actually built until 2004. Imagine that – a design decades ahead of its time, finally brought to life! Wright's original vision for the Arizona State Capitol, dubbed "The Oasis," was unfortunately rejected back in the day for being too "modern." However, Scottsdale recognized the brilliance in Wright's design and decided to make the spire a focal point for the Promenade Shopping Centre. Thanks to one of Wright's apprentices, Arnold Roy, who adapted the original design, this stunning structure became a reality. What makes the spire so special? Unique Design: It's unlike anything you've ever seen. Constructed from 1,700 steel pieces and weighing a hefty 75,000 pounds, the spire's turquoise blue panels and geometric design are truly captivating. It embodies Wright's philosophy of "organic architecture," blending manufactured structure with the natural desert landscape. Historical Significance: It represents a fascinating piece of architectural history, showcasing a design that was ahead of its time and a glimpse into Wright's unbuilt vision for Arizona's Capitol. Awesome Photo Opportunity: Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, the spire offers incredible photo opportunities. During the day, its unique shape and color stand out against the Arizona sky. But the real magic happens at night when internal LED lighting illuminates the spire in a soft blue glow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle visible for miles. Celestial Alignment: Adding to its uniqueness, the spire's design aligns with the celestial equator, making it a man-made star map of sorts! Local Tips for your Visit: Evening Visit: Arrive in the evening to witness the spire's stunning nighttime illumination – it's a completely different experience than seeing it during the day. Combine with Shopping/Dining: It's located at the Promenade Shopping Centre, so you can easily combine your visit with a shopping spree or a meal. Explore Wright's Scottsdale: For a deeper dive into Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture, Taliesin West, his winter home and school, is only about 7 miles away. Touring the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Scottsdale The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire is more than just a sculpture; it's a symbol of Scottsdale's commitment to art and architecture, and a must-visit landmark for anyone in the area. Go see it for yourself and prepare...
Read moreI am a big fan of FLW and all of his work. This spire is honestly beautiful with it’s shape, design, and color. I went in the middle of the day, so when you step around it in the shaded area the sun behind it like really lights it up. It is also lit up manually in the evening, but I think it’s especially beautiful in the daytime. The turquoise color really represents Arizona well and it’s honestly something worth seeing. It’s located right next to Capital Grille and Maggiano’s and there is a small sculpture garden at the base of it to view as well. There is no admission or parking fee, or anything of that nature. A must visit for any fan of FLW, or anyone who...
Read moreI think this is the dumbest art piece I've seen in a long, long time.. I realize it's a famous figure that wanted to put something unique here, but it interrupts everything around it and makes it about the artist instead of the environment. And then Arizona steps in and puts a bunch of shops around it so you could spend money on trinket tributes of a blue spike sticking out of the ground. I understand that art is the passing of an experience From one person to another, but I don't know what Frank was thinking. And really the placard, if you read the placard, it's full of self-importance. "I wanted a summer home” basically. And so...
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