Would be the first complete, viable, and intact Wright-designed building to meet the wrecking ball in more than 40 years Update January 10, 7:15 p.m. EST: According to the Frank Lloyd Wright Building conservancy, an attempt by the group to purchase the building has failed, and demolition is expected to proceed on the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Lockridge Medical
A late-period building by Frank Lloyd Wright in Whitefish, Montana, is expected to be demolished after a last-minute buyer didn?t come forward in time, according to the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy.
The Lockridge Medical Center, a rare example of the architect?s work in Montana, has been under threat for years, but the pace of potential demolition accelerated in the new year. According to an earlier release sent by the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, the Montana Preservation Alliance confirmed with Whitefish attorney Ryan Purdy, the legal counsel for building owner, Mick Ruis, that asbestos abatement had begun in preparation for a full demolition. After local preservationists found out and sounded the alarm, the owner?s representative said he ?has agreed to sell it to anyone who puts $1.7 million in his hand by the 10th of January.?
Curbed had reported earlier that Ruis had plans to tear down the structure to make way for a three-story commercial development, including retail space, offices, and four residential units on the top floor.

According to an earlier Curbed report...