R. W. Lindholm Service Station, or as commonly known Frank Lloyd Wright gas station in Cloquet, MN is the only built gas station by the famous architect, is a piece of history in an unassuming location in a small town in northern Minnesota. It’s a part of the architect’s futuristic vision of the American cities and way of life.
“Wright had designed station owner Ray Lindholm’s house in 1952 and, knowing Lindholm worked in the oil business, presented him with a proposal to design the gas station envisioned as part of Broadacre City.” Wikipedia
The first time I saw this small structure I was at awe with it’s presence and unusual shape. The expansive cantilevered canopy was clearly representative of FLW architectural style. The station also includes a upper floor lounge with windows which while looking down at the pumps overlooks the St. Louis River in the horizon.
I later found out the canopy with its triangular shape was designed to connect with the River by pointing at it. Another example of Wright’s cleverly subtle but whimsical ways.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._W._Lindholm_Service_Station
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2008/08/07/frank-lloyd-wright-gas-station-turns-50
