Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House Restoration
A landmark project in Buffalo, NY, completed as part of a $100M preservation effort.
A Historic Commission of Trust
Built between 1903 and 1905, the Martin House is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most celebrated works and a designated U.S. National Historic Landmark. After decades of neglect, it became the focus of a $100M preservation effort to restore the estate to its original vision.
This short film explores the history and cultural significance of the Martin House. It highlights why the estate remains a cornerstone of American architecture and why its preservation matters.
As part of this restoration, New England Asphalt was entrusted with the carriage house driveway, delivering a surface that honors Wright’s design while meeting modern standards of durability.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
Landmark Property
Highly effective in protecting against oxidation and intrusion of surface moisture
Authentic Materials
Stone sourced from the same quarry Wright used in 1905.
Preservation Approval
Coordinated with and approved by local, state, and national boards.
Major Restoration Effort
Part of a $100M preservation project restoring the estate.
Craftsmanship in Action
Four days of on-site work combining traditional methods with modern techniques.
Recognized Results
Project completed to standard and awarded a 5-star review.
THE MARTIN HOUSE PROJECT
Challenge:
Preserving a National Landmark under strict standards
The restoration of the Martin House carriage house driveway came with unique challenges. As a U.S. National Historic Landmark, the property required every aspect of the work to be approved by preservation authorities at the local, state, and national levels. Authenticity was non-negotiable: the finished surface had to reflect Frank Lloyd Wright’s original 1905 design. Even the stone had to come from the very same quarry Wright selected more than a century ago. At the same time, the driveway needed to function as a modern surface—durable, safe, and able to withstand today’s demands.
SOLUTION:
Authentic materials, modern methods, meticulous execution
Our team mobilized from Connecticut to Buffalo, dedicating four days on site to complete the project with precision. Stone was carefully sourced from Wright’s original quarry and transported to the Martin House to meet historical specifications. We applied advanced chip-seal techniques that reinforced the structural integrity of the surface while maintaining the authentic appearance required by preservation boards. Every step was carried out in close coordination with officials, ensuring that both the letter and the spirit of Wright’s vision were upheld.
RESULTS:
A restored surface that honors the past and endures the future
The completed driveway blends seamlessly with Wright’s architecture and the surrounding estate, preserving the property’s historic character while delivering long-term performance. The project was fully approved by all preservation bodies involved, demonstrating that modern craftsmanship and historic accuracy can coexist. Stakeholders recognized the work with a 5-star review, and the Martin House restoration continues to serve as a showcase of architectural preservation done right. For New England Asphalt, the project stands as proof of the expertise and trust required to work on one of America’s most iconic landmarks.
Recognition from New York State Preservation Officials
“Everyone I’ve spoken to is extremely pleased with the final product and your team’s professionalism and dedication. We had our Capital group out to the Martin House yesterday — around 30 architects, engineers, and landscape architects — and they were all very impressed.”
Project Showcase
HAVE YOU SEEN WHAT EXPERT CRAFTSMANSHIP CAN ACHIEVE?
The restoration of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House shows how authentic materials and precise workmanship create results that last generations. The same dedication is available for your home or property.