Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House is a historic site located in Alexandria, Virginia. The property is comprised of two separate structures: Woodlawn, a Federal-style mansion built in 1805, and the Pope-Leighey House, a mid-century modern home designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1940.
Woodlawn was originally built as a gift from George Washington to his nephew, Major Lawrence Lewis, and his wife, Eleanor "Nelly" Custis Lewis, the granddaughter of Martha Washington. The mansion features classic Federal-style architecture, with symmetrical facades, a central entrance, and decorative moldings. The interior of the house has been restored to its original 19th-century appearance, with period furnishings and decor.
The Pope-Leighey House, on the other hand, is a stark departure from the traditional style of Woodlawn. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for journalist Loren Pope and his wife, the house is a prime example of Wright's Usonian architecture, which was intended to be affordable and accessible to middle-class families. The house features a flat roof, cantilevered overhangs, and an open floor plan that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Visitors to Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House can take guided tours of both properties, learning about the history and architecture of each. The site also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including workshops, lectures, and special exhibitions. Additionally, the property features beautiful gardens and grounds, which visitors are welcome to explore at their leisure.
