ROCKFORD (WREX) -
The Laurent Foundation is now the official owner of the Laurent House and its furnishings.
The Foundation closed on the home last week. They're currently working toward turning the residence into a museum and visitor attraction. The foundation is also partnering with the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy to determine which features of the home need to be restored and preserved. Repairing the roof, masonry, and some interior fabrics and upholstery are being looked at.
The Laurent Foundation is also applying for federal and local historic status for the home.
The Laurent House is Rockford's only home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The home was designed in 1949 for Kenneth and Phyllis Laurent and is the only home Wright designed specifically to be wheelchair accessible. The home was secured by the Laurent Foundation in December 2011.
