The Walker Guesthouse: A Mid-Century Marvel

On the market for $2 million through Brown Harris Stevens, The Walker Guesthouse is a stunning mid-century architectural treasure designed by the renowned Paul Rudolph.

This one-bedroom, one-bathroom modernist marvel stands out as a significant achievement in 20th-century design, celebrated for its inventive structure and outstanding craftsmanship.

Architectural Innovation and History

Built in 1952 on the idyllic Sanibel Island in Florida, this 24-foot cube is a masterful combination of wood, steel, and glass.

Its innovative rigging system incorporates pulleys and counterweights that manage large shutters, allowing for customizable exterior light and privacy.

Originally commissioned by Walter W. Walker, a descendant of a Minnesota lumber empire and an avid art enthusiast, the guesthouse remained in his family for decades.

It found a new owner at a Sotheby’s auction in 2019, fetching $920,000.

Since that sale, the guesthouse has been stored away, earning a reputation as a true masterpiece of architectural art.

Unmatched Design Features

Though it was formerly located in Rhinebeck, New York, the adaptable design of the guesthouse permits it to be at home in almost any environment worldwide.

The sale includes distinctive furnishings crafted by Rudolph himself, such as a stylish desk, a sleek coffee table, and elegant chairs, along with the original blueprints that detail this architectural gem.

It’s worth noting that shipping costs are not included in the asking price.

Paul Rudolph, renowned for his dramatic Brutalist designs, served as the head of Yale University’s architecture department from 1957 until his passing in 1997.

The Walker Guesthouse has appeared in various architectural publications and is currently featured in a retrospective exhibition at the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art.

This property is not merely a residence; it represents a legacy of visionary design that awaits a new owner to continue its inspiring narrative.