One of Only Three Frank Lloyd Wright Homes in Virginia Is on the Market for $2.9M

Completed in 1960—less than a year after the legendary architect’s death—the Cooke House also marks one of his last works.

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Property Details: 

Location: 320 51st Street, Virginia Beach, Virginia

Price: $2,850,000

Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright

Year Built: 1959-1960

Footprint: 3,020 square feet (four bedrooms, three baths)

Lot size: 26,068 square feet

From the agent: "Frank Lloyd Wright’s design. The home is westerly facing with beautiful sunsets on the deep water of Crystal Lake. The home is made of double walls of glazed brick, red cypress, and copper roofing. The lot is extremely rare due to its privacy, elevation, and size at 26,068 square feet. FLW’s vision believed in harmony with the environment. The 70-foot great room with the curved window wall is breathtaking. The current owner did extensive improvements and updates. KDW Home designed an open kitchen with high-end appliances as well as renovated the bathrooms. New docks, deck, pier, and bulkhead were installed. New plumbing, hot water heating, and radiant heat floors. Automatic shades in living room and primary bedroom. This home transcends time."

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Cooke House sits on the shore of Crystal Lake in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The home was commissioned by Andrew and Maude Cooke in 1951, but construction didn’t begin until 1959, just two weeks before Wright’s death. The waterfront residence was completed in 1960.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

The 3,020-square-foot house is made of glazed brick and red cypress with concrete floors. The residence incorporates several of Wright’s signature elements such as as radiant-slab heating, built-in furniture, and clerestory windows. 

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

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The semicircular layout is also characteristic of Wright’s hemicycle-shaped designs. The 70-foot-long living and dining area features a cathedral ceiling, as well as a curved glass wall that offers spectacular lake views.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

In the open kitchen, a large island with a built-in gas range offers ample space for meal preparation and casual dining.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

The most recent homeowner updated the kitchen and bathrooms with new appliances and fixtures. The woodwork was also restored to its original color.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

A 40-foot-long, built-in sofa—original to the home—extends to the brick-clad gas fireplace situated between the kitchen/dining area and the living room.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

Full-height windows and glass doors connect the principal bedroom to the rear patio.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

In total, the Cooke House includes four bedrooms and three baths.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

A narrow, wood-paneled hallway leading to one of the bedrooms is lined with built-in storage. 

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

Wood and brick details continue into the recently updated bathrooms.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

The main living area and principal bedroom open directly onto a wedge-shaped terrace that overlooks the lake. 

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

The copper roof cantilevers over a portion of the rear patio. A series of cutouts in the eaves let natural light pass through.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

A set of stairs leads to an underground bunker added by one of the previous owners.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

The subterranean space currently serves as an artist’s studio.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

Prior renovations to the home have also included the addition of a private dock.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

A cozy deck with an outdoor firepit offers the perfect place for waterfront gatherings.

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

The entire property covers more than 26,000 square feet.  

Photo by Dave Schwartz, Coastal Exposures

320 51st Street in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is currently listed for $2,850,000 by Robin West of Rose and Womble Realty.

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