
Tennessee's Only Frank Lloyd Wright Home Is for Sale
Perched atop Chattanooga's historic Missionary Ridge, the Shavin House is Tennessee's only Frank Lloyd Wright residence — commissioned in 1949 by newlyweds Seamour and Gerte Shavin, completed in 1952, and lovingly preserved by the original family for more than 75 years. It has never been offered to the market. Until now. Reddit is already losing its mind, and understandably so.
A Usonian Masterwork, Preserved for 75 Years
The Shavin House is a pure expression of Wright's Usonian philosophy — his vision for organic, democratic architecture that harmonizes with its natural setting rather than imposing upon it. Constructed primarily of native Tennessee Crab Orchard stone and richly textured Louisiana cypress, the 1,784-square-foot, three-bedroom, four-bath residence showcases expansive walls of glass, mitered corner windows, clerestory lighting, custom wood screens, and built-in furnishings throughout. A dramatic cantilevered carport roof, a hidden entrance, and a massive stone fireplace anchoring the living space all reflect a unified architectural vision executed at the highest level. The home captures breathtaking views of the Tennessee River, Lookout Mountain, and the surrounding landscape — light and its ever-changing character shifting gracefully throughout the day and with the seasons. The surrounding native gardens and pond were designed specifically for the residence as part of Wright's complete vision for the property.
First Time on the Market. Probably the Only Time.
The Shavin House has been in the same family since it was built — more than seven decades of single-family stewardship of a nationally significant architectural landmark. Reddit's response was immediate and heartfelt. One commenter noted they need to stop seeing these mid-century homes posted because the want is becoming unbearable. Another called it their favorite so far, praising the use of natural materials and the rare quality of feeling marvelous and expensive without looking grandiose. A third went straight to the practical reality: winning the Powerball helps, but so does being able to afford to live in the middle of nowhere without a regular job. The Shavin House is, as the listing correctly notes, not just a home — it is stewardship of something irreplaceable. The next owner will be only the second family to hold it.
The Internet Has Thoughts
Naturally, this listing caught the attention of Reddit's r/zillowgonewild community. See what people are saying about it here.
One family. Seventy-five years. One Frank Lloyd Wright original on a Chattanooga ridgeline — and the first time it has ever been available to buy. View the full listing here.














