In this episode, I interview Natascha Drabbe, an architectural historian and the Founder and Executive Director of the Iconic Houses Network. WWW.ICONICHOUSES.ORG.

We delve into the worlds of design and architecture as Natascha shares her journey to preserve iconic residential architecture. You get an insider's look at her initiative to create a global community of house museums designed by architects for their personal use and her efforts to prevent the loss of architectural heritage. There are over two hundred you can visit on your own or join with Natascha in Amsterdam and at the Chicago Conference, where you can also visit Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin and the Edith Farnsworth House.

From the narrowest functional house in Poland to the stunning Maison Louis Carré near Paris, Natascha navigates us through incredible architectural stories and the fight to save endangered homes. In an inspiring demonstration of the power of individual action, she provides insights into how the network aids in the restoration and public access of these unique properties. This conversation reveals the architectural significance and the compelling human histories behind these iconic homes.

Key Takeaways:

• Iconic Houses Network's Mission: A platform that connects over two hundred modern house museums worldwide and provides a support system for preserving architecturally significant homes.
• Architectural Significance of Residential Museums: The discovery of innovative homes, such as the narrow Keret House in Poland, demonstrates architecture's immense creative potential.
• Preservation Advocacy: Highlighting the plight of at-risk houses and showcasing successful restoration stories focusing on communities joining hands for heritage conservation.
• Unique Architectural Visits: Insight into exclusive tours featuring hidden gems of modernist architecture, including Aalto's Maison Louis Carré and Frank Lloyd Wright's creations.

About our Guest: With a passion for architecture and a personal connection to an award-winning listed monument house designed by her late husband, Mart van Schijndel a leading Dutch architect, Natascha Drabbe was motivated to open her house for tours to share its innovative design with others. Recognizing the challenges faced by owners of architect-designed houses, she spearheaded the creation of the Iconic Houses Network in 2012, uniting architecturally significant house museums worldwide. Under her leadership, the network has grown to over two hundred modern house museums, aiming to facilitate knowledge sharing among professionals and to inspire architecture aficionados.

Resources:

• Iconic Houses Network Website: iconichouses.org