Purcell-Cutts House
A Prairie School architectural gem designed by Purcell & Elmslie, offering a rare glimpse into innovative early 20th-century design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Tours available
Purcell-Cutts House
Best Time
Tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Prairie School architectural gem designed by Purcell & Elmslie, offering a rare glimpse into innovative early 20th-century design.
"Absolutely gorgeous, you have to go see it if you get the chance."
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Tours fill up fast! Secure your spot for the second full weekend of the month ASAP.
☀️ Visit on a Sunny Day
Minimal lighting preserves the house; a sunny day enhances the viewing experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prairie School Architecture
A masterpiece of Prairie School design by Purcell and Elmslie, showcasing innovative architectural elements.
Historic Interior Design
Explore the meticulously restored interiors, featuring unique design elements and minimal lighting for preservation.
Lake of the Isles Proximity
Located near the scenic Lake of the Isles, offering a pleasant setting for your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tour Availability is Limited
Experience Prairie School Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Tours fill up fast! Secure your spot for the second full weekend of the month ASAP.
☀️ Visit on a Sunny Day
Minimal lighting preserves the house; a sunny day enhances the viewing experience.
🚶♀️ Explore with Guides
Guides on each floor offer fascinating stories and insights about the house.
🏛️ Attend Doors Open MPLS
A free event offering rare access to historic gems like this house.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Tours fill up fast! Secure your spot for the second full weekend of the month ASAP.
☀️ Visit on a Sunny Day
Minimal lighting preserves the house; a sunny day enhances the viewing experience.
🚶♀️ Explore with Guides
Guides on each floor offer fascinating stories and insights about the house.
🏛️ Attend Doors Open MPLS
A free event offering rare access to historic gems like this house.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Purcell-Cutts House for its stunning Prairie School architecture and the enriching guided tours. Many highlight the unique design elements and the historical significance of the home. Some note the minimal lighting, which, while necessary for preservation, can impact photography, and recommend visiting on a sunny day for a better experience.
"I participated in the doors open day. It was great the people at the house had a wonderful story and it was great to see the place. The windows were really cool to see. Thank you!"
Adam Ruskin
"To preserve the house, lighting is minimal. I'm sure it's better on a sunnier day. Interesting design elements in a rather small house."
Peter Lenagh
"Went to Open Doors Minneapolis 2024. Best decision! Enriching. Had a charmed experience, especially hearing all about the house from the guides who were present on every floor. Thank you MIA!"
Lily Keire
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Purcell-Cutts House is located near the Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. Public transportation options are available, and driving is also feasible. Parking information may vary, so check local advisories.
Parking availability can be limited, especially during tour weekends. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours are typically held on the second full weekend of each month. It's crucial to book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.
Yes, tours are generally limited to the second full weekend of every month. Keep an eye on the Mia's website for exact dates and booking information.
While some events like Doors Open Minneapolis offer free access, standard tours may have an admission fee. Check the Mia's official website for current pricing.
Access to the Purcell-Cutts House is primarily through guided tours. Spontaneous visits without prior booking are generally not possible.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The house is a significant example of Prairie School architecture, designed by William Gray Purcell and George Grant Elmslie, featuring innovative design principles.
Expect to learn about the history of the house, its architects, and the family who lived there. Guides are present on each floor to share insights.
The house has minimal lighting to preserve its interiors, which can affect photography. However, the unique design elements offer interesting photographic opportunities.
Some sources mention legends and ghost stories associated with the house, adding an element of intrigue to the visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending during Doors Open Minneapolis for a more accessible experience, as it's a free event designed for broader public engagement. Ensure children understand the importance of respecting the historic environment. The proximity to Lake of the Isles also provides an opportunity for outdoor fun before or after the house tour, making it a well-rounded outing.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Compare its design to that of Frank Lloyd Wright, as both architects were pioneers in the field and even worked together. The house's preservation allows for an authentic experience of the period's aesthetic and functional considerations. The guided tours are particularly valuable, providing expert commentary that enhances the appreciation of the architectural nuances.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance: Prairie School Style
Purcell and Elmslie were contemporaries and colleagues of Frank Lloyd Wright, another pioneer of Prairie School design. Their work together in the same firm at one point highlights the collaborative and influential nature of this architectural era. The house was built for Purcell's own family, allowing the architects to fully realize their vision without compromise, resulting in a home considered a masterpiece of the style.
Visitors often remark on the thoughtful design elements and the way the house feels both expansive and intimate. The preservation efforts ensure that the integrity of the original design is maintained, offering a genuine glimpse into the past. It's a must-see for anyone interested in American architectural history.
Experiencing the Tours and Preservation
A key aspect of visiting is understanding the preservation efforts in place. To protect the historic interiors and materials, the house features minimal lighting. While this might impact photography, it's a necessary measure to maintain the house's integrity for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the subtle details and the overall ambiance created by this approach.
Special events like Doors Open Minneapolis provide unique opportunities for the public to access and learn about the Purcell-Cutts House, often for free. These events are popular and highlight the community's appreciation for preserving and sharing such significant landmarks. Planning around these events can offer a special way to experience the house.
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Social
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