his past fall, I had the unique opportunity to photograph another Frank Lloyd Wright home—the Meyer May House in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was a special experience as I was visiting my Mom, who had recently moved to Ludington, Michigan, the town where she grew up. Ludington is a place I hold dear, with its pristine sugar sand beaches, lighthouses, and a wealth of outdoor activities that made for wonderful childhood memories.
While in Michigan for a few weeks, I thought it would be the perfect time to make a short trip to Grand Rapids and visit the Meyer May House, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most iconic properties. After contacting Steelcase Inc., who owns and operates the property, they graciously offered a private tour just for my Mom and me, along with a few hours to photograph the home. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up, and I’m thrilled to share the stunning images from this unforgettable experience.
The Meyer May House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908 for Meyer May, a local businessman. As one of the best examples of Wright’s Prairie School style, the home features low-pitched roofs, overhanging eaves, and horizontal lines that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The interior is characterized by open spaces, custom-built furniture, and natural materials like wood and stone—hallmarks of Wright’s visionary design.
After the May family sold the home in the 1940s, the property was rezoned for multi-family use. In the 1980s, Steelcase Inc. purchased the house and undertook a meticulous restoration, returning the home to Wright’s original vision. Today, the Meyer May House is open to the public as a museum, offering tours that allow visitors to experience Wright’s architectural brilliance up close.
I want to give a special thanks to Don Dekker, Director of the Meyer May House, for the personal tour and for allowing me the opportunity to photograph this magnificent property. The photos were captured on October 7th, 2022 and provide a glimpse into the beauty and timeless appeal of Wright’s design.
Ethan specializes in photography for luxury real estate, architects, interior designers, and luxury hotels and resorts. Ethan serves all of the Hawaiian Islands including the Big Island, Maui, Oahu and Kauai. You may contact me at 808-938-4665 | ethantweedie@gmail.com
