Russel and Mary Wright: Dragon Rock at Manitoga

In the heart of the Hudson Valley, nestled within a verdant expanse reclaimed from an abandoned quarry, lies Dragon Rock at Manitoga – the embodiment of Russel and Mary Wright’s vision where design harmonizes with nature. This transformative journey, from a plundered landscape to a sanctuary of design and natural beauty, is meticulously chronicled in the book Russel and Mary Wright: Dragon Rock at Manitoga. This volume invites readers into the Wrights’ world, showcasing over a hundred stunning photographs and personal stories that bring to life their innovative design practice, entrepreneurship, and the evolution of their iconic home and the surrounding Woodland Paths of Manitoga.

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A Testament to American Individualism

The Wrights’ Philosophy

In an era marked by suburban conformity, Russel and Mary Wright stood apart as champions of individualism and informal modernity. Their home, Dragon Rock, serves not just as a dwelling but as a profound statement of living in harmony with one’s surroundings. Unlike the grand Old World-style estates dotting the Hudson River’s banks, Manitoga celebrates personal expression and an intimate connection with the American landscape.

Manitoga: A Landscape Reimagined

Russel Wright’s vision for Manitoga was groundbreaking. Long before “ecosystem” became a buzzword in ecology, Wright envisioned a landscape that was both a sanctuary for native flora and fauna and a space for human creativity and relaxation. He transformed the ravaged land into a series of “forest rooms,” connected by trails that follow ancient animal paths, each designed to highlight the unique beauty of the changing seasons.

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Inside Dragon Rock: A Home Unlike Any Other

Blurring the Lines Between Indoors and Outdoors

Dragon Rock is a testament to the Wrights’ belief in the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The home’s design, with its natural materials and large mirrors reflecting the surrounding woods, creates a living space that is as much a part of the landscape as the trees and rocks outside. This design philosophy extends to the use of native plants and the creation of water features that mimic natural processes, showcasing the Wrights’ commitment to living in harmony with nature.

Legacy and Inspiration

Continuing the Wrights’ Vision

Today, Manitoga stands as a beacon of design and environmental stewardship. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the Wrights’ legacy, Manitoga offers a unique insight into the possibilities of design that respects and enhances the natural world. The Wrights’ work, especially their collaborative “Guide to Easier Living,” continues to inspire designers and homeowners alike to embrace simplicity, functionality, and a deeper connection with the environment.

Join the Journey of Design and Nature

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Sources

Silk, S., & Courant, T. W. (1994, May 15). NEW YORK STATE GARRISON PLACE OF THE GREAT SPIRIT MANITOGA CELEBRATES THE HUMAN IN NATURE: [STATEWIDE EDITION]. Hartford Courant

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