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
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🌐 Website: https://swaback.com/
📸 Instagram: @swaback_
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