This Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home is a hidden gem in the Hudson Valley

From overlooked roadside attractions to unusual museums and mysterious natural wonders, Local Hidden Gems will showcase some of the unique and unexpected treasures that make America extraordinary. We will emphasize charm, surprise and pleasure.

Local hidden gem: Petra Island in Lake Mahopac, New York

Just 50 miles north of New York City lies an oasis so far from the hustle and bustle that you have to get there by ferry or helicopter.

Petra Island on Mahopac Lake in Putnam County is home to an architectural work of art inspired by icon Frank Lloyd Wright.

The family had a budget of $50,000 to build a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

In the 1940s, the Chahroudi family, who then owned Petra Island, commissioned architect Frank Lloyd Wright to design a house on the heart-shaped island. On September 3, 1950 Pamela Chahroudi sent a letter to Wright We discuss the plans of the house and possible names of the design.

“We’ve been trying to come up with a name for the house, but so far we haven’t come up with a better name than Shipwreck, Ship Rock, Isosceles, Innisfree, Rockwater, Stillwater,” Pamela wrote, asking the designer for his suggestions.

The Chahroudi family’s budget, including Wright’s fees, was set at an “absolute maximum” of $50,000.

Instead of starting with the main house, the family built a guest cottage on the island.

The new owner decided to finish the work started on Petra Island

John Massaro, who purchased the island and the house in the 1990s, received Wright’s original architectural drawings for the design of the main house with the sale. He decided to finish the work started by Wright and the Chahroudi family by completing the building now known as the Massaro House.

according to Wright Over Water websiteMassaro worked with Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiast Tom Heinz to preserve the “spirit” of the original design. Heinz produced new construction drawings from Wright’s originals. The house was completed in 2013 2008.

The island was listed again in 2021, this time $9.95 million.

Tour the Massaro House on Petra Island

While the island is for sale, you can visit the Massaro House and Chahroudi House.

Tours cost USD 150 per person and are guided by a member of the Massaro family.

Good to know: The tour is not disabled accessible and children under 12 are prohibited. High heels are prohibited.

For more information: wrightoverwater.com