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The School of Architecture

Scottsdale, AZ

private nonprofitgraduate

About The School of Architecture

Experience architecture through an unparalleled 'Learn by Doing' legacy from Frank Lloyd Wright.

Step into a unique educational journey at The School of Architecture, an institution deeply rooted in the groundbreaking vision of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Born from the Taliesin Fellowship in 1932, this school has always championed a "Learn by Doing" philosophy, fostering an environment where architecture is not just taught, but lived. Students are immersed in a hands-on curriculum that blends architectural design with a rich understanding of painting, sculpture, music, drama, and dance, treating them as integral divisions of a holistic architectural education.

From its origins as an apprenticeship program, where students contributed to iconic projects like the Johnson Wax Headquarters, Fallingwater, and the Guggenheim Museum, the school has evolved while retaining its core commitment to experiential learning. It formally became an accredited Master of Architecture program in 1986, responding to the evolving demands of the profession, yet never abandoning its practical, studio-based approach. This rich history ensures that students don't just study architecture; they engage with its profound historical legacy and dynamic contemporary practice.

The student experience is unlike any other, offering a deeply integrated education that has continually adapted to challenges. The school has demonstrated remarkable resilience, successfully navigating institutional changes and relocating to new historic campuses, currently based at Cattle Track Arts. This journey underscores a vibrant, adaptable community dedicated to fostering the next generation of architects through direct engagement, critical thinking, and a profound connection to the built environment. Here, you'll learn through design, construction, and collaboration, building both structures and a unique foundation for your future.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1932 by Frank Lloyd Wright as the Taliesin Fellowship, pioneering the "Learn by Doing" educational philosophy.
  • Apprentices contributed to the design and construction of iconic projects, including Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum.
  • Became a fully accredited Master of Architecture program in 1986, evolving from an unconventional apprenticeship model.
  • Successfully maintained accreditation and operations through significant institutional challenges in 2020.
  • Emphasizes an integrated approach to architecture, incorporating fine arts like painting, sculpture, music, drama, and dance.
  • Continues its legacy of experiential learning from historic campuses, currently located at Cattle Track Arts in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Timeline

1931
Frank Lloyd Wright and Olgivanna circulate prospectus for a school at Taliesin.
1932
The Taliesin Fellowship apprenticeship program is founded, emphasizing 'Learn by Doing'.
1939
Wright clarifies the Fellowship as an apprenticeship, not a conventional school, to RIBA.
1986
The program gains formal accreditation as The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture.
2014
Accreditation challenged by Higher Learning Commission due to independent governance requirements.
2017
Separates legally from the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, renamed The School of Architecture at Taliesin.
2020
Initial announcement of school closure, later reversed due to new funding.
2020
Renamed The School of Architecture and moves to historic campuses of Cosanti and Arcosanti.
2023
Moves to its current location at Cattle Track Arts in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within The School of Architecture

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The Taliesin Fellowship

The original apprenticeship program founded by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1932, focusing on 'Learn by Doing' in an integrated arts environment.

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The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture

The institution's first accredited phase, established in 1986 to meet changing licensing requirements for architects.

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The School of Architecture at Taliesin

The school's name from 2017, adopted after its legal separation from the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, while still operating from its historic campuses.

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The School of Architecture

The current iteration of the school, established in 2020, continuing its Master of Architecture program from new historic campuses.

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