“Gray Days and Gold” This inscription above the Purcell-Cutts House’s side gate hints at a story. A story of Prairie School architecture in Minneapolis. The Purcell-Cutts House stands majestically on Lake Place. It’s more than just a house. It’s a testament to a bygone era. An era of innovative design and family life.
Designed in 1913 by architects William Gray Purcell and George Grant Elmslie. The Purcell-Cutts House showcases the Prairie School style. This style embraced nature’s simplicity. It rejected the rigid Victorian layouts. The house was originally the Edna S Purcell House. It was named after William Purcell’s wife Edna. The name changed after the Cutts family purchased the house in 1919.
The Purcells lived there briefly. They moved to Philadelphia. The Cutts family appreciated its architectural significance. They preserved it beautifully. Anson Cutts Jr later bequeathed the house to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. A three-year restoration followed. The house opened to the public in 1990. Now it’s a treasure. A window into the past.
The house’s long narrow floor plan is striking. It maximizes space and light. Overhanging eaves and bands of windows are quintessential Prairie School features. They regulate heat and light. The art glass windows are breathtaking. They connect the interior to the garden. Each window is unique. It’s a testament to Elmslie’s artistic detail. The “jin-di-sugi” treatment on the wood adds character. This is a traditional Japanese wood-aging technique.
The interior is equally fascinating. The open plan is revolutionary for its time. It provides a sense of spaciousness. A sunken living room flows into a raised dining room. A tented ceiling keeps the height consistent. Built-in furniture is everywhere. It’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Edna Purcell’s writing nook is a charming detail. It’s tucked away in a pointed prow. A small triangular chair sits in the nook. It’s known as the “surprise point” chair.
The house is full of playful elements. Elmslie nicknamed it the “Little Joker”. This reflects the unexpected surprises. The “Peek-A-Boo” art glass windows are a prime example. They are both whimsical and functional. The subtle stencil decorations add elegance. They unify the whole design. The fireplace is a focal point. Above it is a mural of Louisiana herons. It evokes a sense of tranquility.
The Purcell-Cutts House is more than just a building. It’s a story of innovation and family. It’s a tribute to the Prairie School style. It’s a treasure in Minneapolis. Take the time to explore it. You’ll discover many more secrets. Many more beautiful elements. This house provides a glimpse into the past. A unique piece of Minneapolis history.