In this episode of Modern Home Mastermind, Shawna and Brittainy sit down with Mike Wetzel, AIA of SWABACK Architects + Planners to explore how Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy continues to shape modern design. Mike shares intimate stories passed down from Wright’s youngest apprentice, Vern Swaback—including the famous handwritten letter to Taliesin, early Guggenheim design anecdotes, pay-phone construction calls, and the timeless principles that still guide their work today.

Mike also dives into the firm’s standout projects—from the Desert Discovery Center and Liberty Dogs campus to the jewel-named homes of Crown Canyon. He discusses innovation, AI, luxury trends, national expansions, and offers rapid-fire insights into his favorite Wright works, personal design philosophy, and advice for anyone dreaming of a custom home.

Estimated Chapter Timings:

00:00 – Welcome & Introductions

01:00 – Mike’s path & Wright legacy

02:20 – Wright’s principles in modern work

04:55 – Vern’s first meeting with Frank Lloyd Wright

06:00 – Guggenheim stories & challenges

09:45 – Innovation, tech & AI in architecture

12:10 – Notable national + local projects

13:45 – Luxury trends & wellness design

15:55 – Liberty Dogs project

18:13 – Crown Canyon & jewel-named homes

23:20 – Rapid fire: favorite projects

27:31 – Advice for custom home clients

28:31 – Closing & where to find Mike

🔗 Connect with SWABACK Architects + Planners

🌐 Website: https://swaback.com/

📸 Instagram: @swaback_

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