Stone's bold vision: the celanese house still captivating decades later
Edward Durell Stone’s legacy isn’t just in grand civic buildings; it’s sculpted into the very fabric of mid-century moderndesign, and few examples are as striking as the Celanese House in New Canaan, Connecticut.
A pyramid of light
Built in 1959 as a showcase for Celanese Corporation’s products, the house was a deliberate provocation – a residential structure crowned with twelve glass-tipped pyramids, a daring departure from the prevailing aesthetic. Theodore de Freyne Hobbs, the contractor, and Celanese themselves commissioned Stone to deliver an experience, a statement. The result was a four-bedroom home, 4,400 square feet of clean lines, expansive glass walls, and a layout designed to flood the interior with natural light – a calculated risk that paid off immensely.
The exterior, however, was more than just a visual flourish. Enclosing the structure was an intricate lattice screen, providing both privacy and a textural counterpoint to the soaring pyramids. It’s a masterclass in controlled contrast, a delicate balance between modern simplicity and handcrafted artistry.
From cover story to family home
The house quickly garnered attention, appearing on the cover of House & Garden and in numerous design publications. But its story doesn’t end with press coverage. Celanese sold the property to Frederick and Velma Willcox in 1960, transforming it into a cherished family residence. Velma’s passing in 2005 marked the end of an era, leaving the house a tangible link to a bygone era of optimistic design.
Today, the Celanese House, a testament to Stone’s visionary approach, sits on two immaculate acres. While recent owners have made updates – incorporating floating sheet rock walls – the original skylights and exterior walls remain, safeguarding the core of Stone’s design. Current owner Joel Disend is currently seeking $4 million for the property, a figure that reflects the house's enduring appeal.
The latest sale attempt, initially at $4.7 million, demonstrates the continued fascination with this architectural gem. Inger Stringfellow of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty is handling the listing, hoping to find a new custodian for this remarkable piece of design history. It’s a reminder that some buildings transcend trends, retaining their power to inspire long after their initial creation – a testament to the enduring brilliance of Edward Durell Stone.