Meyer May House, Grand Rapids (must see)

The Meyer May House, designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is a stunning example of Prairie-style architecture. Built in 1908–09 for clothier Meyer S. May and his wife Sophie, the house stands as a striking departure from the Victorian-era homes surrounding it. With its low-pitched roof, horizontal lines, and extensive use of leaded glass windows, the home reflects Wright’s vision of blending architecture with the natural environment. The design features block-like masses, pronounced copings, and a harmonious interplay between the walls, ceilings, and floors, embodying Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture.

After years of modifications, the Meyer May House underwent a meticulous two-year restoration led by Steelcase Inc., which returned it to its original grandeur. The restoration included reproductions of original furnishings and the recreation of Wright’s intricate leaded glass designs, ensuring the house remains a pristine example of his Prairie School era. Visitors can admire the 108 windows and skylights that fill the interior with natural light, creating an ever-changing interplay of light and shadow. The living room, with its clerestory windows and skylights, exemplifies Wright's innovative approach, seamlessly integrating architectural elements with the surrounding landscape.

Today, the Meyer May House offers free public tours, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience early 20th-century elegance. Guests can explore the meticulously restored interiors, stroll through the recreated grounds, and watch a film chronicling the house’s history and restoration. Known as "Michigan's Prairie masterpiece," the Meyer May House not only showcases Wright's architectural genius but also provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Grand Rapids' affluent residents during the early 1900s.