Miller House and Garden
The Miller House and Garden in Columbus, Indiana, is one of the most highly regarded examples of mid-century Modernism in the United States. It is considered the most refined, fully-realized work of Modern domestic architecture, interiors, and landscape, designed by Eero Saarinen, Alexander Girard, and Daniel Urban Kiley. In 2000, the Miller House and Garden was designated a National Historic Landmark while still occupied by its original owners.
In 2009, the entire property, along with many of the original furnishings and artworks, were donated to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Inc. now DBA Newfields.
Highlights
Saarinen, Kiley, and Girard each contributed their talent, however their collective work at Miller House and Garden constitutes a whole greater than the sum of its parts. While the design work of each is renowned, the integration and interplay of buildings, interiors, and landscapes represents an extraordinary level of mastery. Highlights include the visible structuring systems, skylights, and transparent wall systems. The interiors are noteworthy for the storage wall systems, custom Girard designs, and built in features such as the conversation pit, fireplace, and dining table. The gardens complement the house with interwoven grids and allees and a sweeping meadow.
Insider's Guide
Tour tickets for Miller House and Garden are available from the Columbus Area Visitors Center. They operate other architectural tours of downtown Columbus showcasing a wealth of architectural gems from world renowned architects such as Eliel and Eero Saarinen, Kevin Roche, I.M. Pei, Harry Weese, and Deborah Berke. Brown County is also a short drive away making a trip to Columbus the perfect weekend getaway. Columbus is about an hour drive from Indianapolis and Louisville and two hours from Cincinnati.