Frank Lloyd Wright, renowned architect and mastermind behind some of the world’s most iconic buildings, once referred to the 2,600-square-foot Laurent House on Spring Brook Road as his “little gem.” Among his 38 greatest designs, this accessible home predates the Americans with Disabilities Act, making it a prime example of Wright’s innovative vision.
Facing the possibility of being sold and relocated away from Rockford, the Laurent House’s preservation and maintenance can be credited to the late Jerry Heinzeroth and the dedicated volunteers he rallied. With the help of community donations totaling $1.5 million, this architectural masterpiece has been transformed into a beloved Rockford museum, visited and cherished by thousands each year.
Heinzeroth, who sadly passed away at the age of 81, played a pivotal role as the founder and former president of the Laurent House Foundation. He, along with his wife Barbara, shared a deep friendship with Ken and Phyllis Laurent, the original homeowners of the house. Ken, a World War II veteran and paraplegic confined to a wheelchair, commissioned Wright to design their home in 1948.
Wright’s vision for the Laurent House incorporated his signature “Usonian” design style, characterized by grand, horizontal sight lines that seamlessly connect the interior with the exterior. Remarkably, the house lacks ramps or handholds, yet features 50-foot-long floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room that curve around a tranquil patio and pond, harmoniously integrating the surroundings. The furniture, also designed by Wright, is purposefully lower to ensure a sense of equality between guests and their wheelchair-bound hosts.
The Laurents resided in this architectural masterpiece for an astounding 60 years before Phyllis’s passing in 2012, and Ken’s passing at the age of 92. Ken often attributed his longevity to the unique design of the house, which allowed him to focus on his abilities rather than his disability. A proud moment for Rockford, this house symbolizes how the world’s greatest architect chose to honor a humble disabled veteran in the most extraordinary way possible.
Despite the loss of Heinzeroth, his profound impact on the Laurent House Foundation and its mission to promote accessibility and inclusivity will continue to be felt. Mary Beth Peterson, the Executive Director of the foundation, fondly remembers Heinzeroth as a brilliant and creative visionary who prompted excitement and belief in the possibilities of the Laurent House.
Jerry Heinzeroth is survived by his sons Brock and Blake. A celebration of his life was held recently, commemorating the inspiring legacy he leaves behind.