One Was Built By & The Other Inspired By Frank Lloyd Wright - Petra Island

The 11-acre Petra Island floats like a secret gem on Lake Mahopac in upstate New York. It is only accessible by boat or helicopter and features two homes with connections to renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

The Chahroudi Cottage is the smaller—but no less significant—companion to the dramatic Massaro House. Unlike its larger, controversial sibling, this modest structure holds the unique distinction of being designed and built by Frank Lloyd Wright himself in 1950. Originally commissioned by publishing executive Ahmed Chahroudi, the cottage was the only part of Wright’s grand plan that could be afforded at the time. The sprawling residence Wright designed for the islands then-owner was never constructed.

Let’s fast forward to 2008 and Wright’s blueprints inspired what is called the Massaro House which is now the heart of the island. The dramatic residence incorporates skylights, stone, cement and mahogany was inspired from the long-dormant blueprints, reinterpreted by builder Joe Massaro and Wright expert Thomas Heinz. Just to be very clear, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation doesn’t officially recognize this home as a certified Wright work—it’s considered only inspired by Wright.

This is what caught my eye - I hope you enjoy!

The Massaro House as the boat approaches the island.

With its low-slung horizontal lines, flat roof, and use of native materials, the cottage reflects Wright’s unmistakable Usonian style—humble, efficient, and in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings.

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The ceiling of the guest cottage.

One of the three cottage bedrooms.

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Frank Lloyd Wright: The Houses

Rizzoli

The Impossible Road: From The First Seat In The Dumb Row To My Own Private Island

By Massaro, Joe

Modern Architecture A–Z (Bibliotheca Universalis)

TASCHEN

The garden created at the top of the hill as you arrive on the island.

The small guest cottage kitchen.

The design meant to harmonize with nature rather than dominate it. Inside, built-in furnishings, and expansive windows keep the compact space feeling open and airy.

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The primary cottage bedroom.

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The exterior of Massaro House, inspired by one of Wright’s final designs.

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The rear facade of the house blending into the landscape. This facade conceals the main entrance to the house.

The huge boulder juts into both the skylit living area and kitchen, becoming a functional, sculptural feature.

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Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture is here with the home that is built into the rock itself and floor-to-ceiling windows invite nature indoors.

The long, windowed living area with fireplace.

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The dining area.

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In the kitchen area

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The primary bedroom

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Looking out to the section of terrace that wraps around three sides of house, mostly over the lake.

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One of the two bathrooms

Sone and wood are used in this bathroom.

The other bedrooms.

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The outdoor fireplace area of the deck.

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What you should know:

• Check website for reservations information and tour availability.

• Tours cover both the Chahroudi cottage and the Massaro House.

• The boat ride is included in the tour admission, and the ride is approximately a half hour to the island and a little longer on the way back as the driver gives an explanation about the area.

• Parking at the dock is provided.

• The Massaro House is based on original 1949 plans by Frank Lloyd Wright, but it wasn’t completed until 2007—decades after Wright’s death.

• The entire visit is about two to two and half hours from the main dock and back.

• There are a few restaurant options in town near the main dock.

Location: 883 South Lake Blvd, Mahopac, NY

For more information: Petra Island Tours

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