A legal battle has erupted over the preservation of Price Tower, Frank Lloyd Wright’s only skyscraper, following allegations of unauthorized sales of historic furnishings. The Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy, a prominent preservation organization, has filed a counterclaim to uphold an easement safeguarding the iconic building’s design integrity.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy began when the Conservancy accused the tower’s owners, Green Copper Holdings, Copper Tree Inc., and Cynthia Blanchard, of breaching a 2011 easement. This agreement was designed to protect the historical and architectural value of the 19-story building in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. The owners allegedly sold custom furniture and other historic items, such as chairs, a gate designed by Bruce Goff, and a directory board, to cover operational expenses.
In response to the backlash, the owners temporarily closed the building’s hotel operations and filed a lawsuit against the Conservancy. The lawsuit seeks to void the easement, prevent public advocacy for it, and request restitution for damages.
Preservation Efforts and Counterclaims
The Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy has vigorously defended the easement, emphasizing its importance in preserving American cultural landmarks.
“Easements are a critical tool for the preservation of American cultural heritage,” said Safina Uberoi, president of the Conservancy. “We are defending our easement on Price Tower to preserve the integrity of Wright’s design, so it can continue to serve as a source of inspiration for future generations.”
The Conservancy’s legal filing includes counterclaims against the owners for violating the easement terms, unjust enrichment, and indemnity. It also seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to prevent further sales of the building’s historic elements.
Historical Significance of Price Tower
Completed in 1956, Price Tower stands as a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural vision and is his only completed skyscraper. Known for its unique design, it remains one of only two high-rise buildings created by the architect.
This dispute has drawn widespread attention from preservationists, particularly as other Wright-related landmarks, such as Taliesin’s theatre, have recently undergone restorations.
As the case unfolds, the Conservancy’s efforts to protect Price Tower underscore the ongoing challenges of preserving architectural masterpieces in the modern era.