Developer demolishes Frank Lloyd Wright building in Montana

WHITEFISH, Mont. – A commercial building in Montana designed by Frank Lloyd Wright has been demolished after negotiations aimed at saving the historic building failed.

Developer Mick Ruis had agreed to sell the former medical center in Whitefish for $1.7 million if a purchaser was found by Wednesday.

The Chicago-based Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy had attempted to negotiate a deal, but the conservancy says the owner’s terms did not provide realistic means to acquire the building.

Attorney Ryan Purdy says his client listed the building for sale more than a year ago, giving ample time for groups to find a buyer.

The brick building was designed by Wright in 1958, a year before he died. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.