Historic Hudson Valley house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright apprentice lists for for $975K

A midcentury modern home in Rockland County designed by an apprentice of architect Frank Lloyd Wright is on the market for $975,000 with Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty.

Architect Edgar Tafel was a contributor to iconic projects like Fallingwater, considered Wright’s most notable home design for being built over a waterfall while blending with nature, underscoring Wright’s philosophy of designing buildings that are in balance with their surroundings.

Located at 100 Old Pascack Road in Pearl River, the 1949 three-bedroom, three-bath home, known locally as the Bookstaber House, sits on a quiet 1½-acre wooded lot.

Originally commissioned by World War II veteran Henry Bookstaber and his wife, Ingeborg, the home was a collaboration between Bookstaber and Tafel, brainstormed when they were stationed in India during the war, according to a period magazine article and information from the sellers. 

The design reflects a vision of modern domestic life. The home’s focal point is a brick hearth topped by a concrete relief, crafted by the Bookstabers, offering a centerpiece that unites the open-plan living space.

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide the interior in natural light and offer views of mature trees and the neighboring Pascack Brook and parkland. 

Floor-to-ceiling windows in this Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home designed by Edgar Tafel. Photo: Andrea B. Swenson

“With its fusion of functionality and artistic intent, the residence is a rare embodiment of Tafel’s architectural philosophy, that a home should mirror the soul of its owners,” said Marjorie Galen, listing agent for Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty. "This home is more than just a place to live; it’s a piece of architectural history that continues to evolve while staying true to its original vision."

The current owners, who acquired the property from the Bookstaber family, have updated the home with a Porcelanosa kitchen with granite countertops and new appliances. Improvements also include renovated bathrooms, updated mechanical systems, a new roof and a custom-built outdoor patio.

 The home is one mile from downtown Pearl River, which has a Metro-North Railroad station as numerous shops and businesses. Located in the Pearl River school district,  the estimated annual property tax bill is $17,654.

A brick hearth topped with a sculptural concrete relief is one of the home's distinguishing characteristics. Photo: Photo: Andrea B. Swenson

Robert Brum is a freelance journalist who writes about the Hudson Valley. Contact him and read his work at robertbrum.com.