November 15 and November 16, 2008

House Tour Gives Rare Peek into Philip Johnson Modern

A rare peek at a private residence created by the 20th century’s famed architect, Philip Johnson, will be on display at 523 Oenoke Ridge Road on Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. House tour proceeds will benefit New Canaan Historical Society’s project to restore the Landis Gores Pavilion. Tickets are $15 at the door.

To illustrate the adaptation of a mid-century house to today’s living, Victoria Lyon Interiors has brought the house back to life with an interior designed for an imagined occupant who is both an art collector and architecture aficionado. While paying respect to the integrity this historic structure Lyon’s design is a contemporary nod to vintage design executed through the collaborative efforts of contemporary artists, artisans, furniture designers, showrooms, and contractors.

Philip Johnson is the best-known figure from a group of young Harvard-trained architects called “The Harvard Five” who settled in New Canaan in the 1940s and 1950s and became leaders in modern architecture. Johnson referred to this first commission after his famous “Glass House” as his “Little Jewel.” It was completed in 1953 and has been recently restored.

New Canaan Historical Society has been at the forefront of a movement to preserve modern architecture in the area, as many of the original structures have been torn down to be replaced with the currently fashionable mansions. The historical society is raising funds to restore the Landis Gores Pavilion. Landis Gores was himself a member of the Harvard Five. Plans are to use the Pavilion as a museum and cultural center highlighting the New Canaan Moderns’ legacy and offering exhibit and meeting space to artists, students, and town residents.

The subject of the weekend tour, The Philip Johnson Modern house is being offered for sale through William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty through Prudy Parris, 203-966-2623.

For additional information, please contact Sotheby’s, Victoria Lyon Interiors at 203-540-5350 or New Canaan Historical Society at 203-966-1776.