Though Chris Abel never had any formal training in architecture early on – in fact, Dad didn’t receive his architectural credentials until he was 37 – he was innately artistic and heavily influenced by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Chris’ natural artistic talents and his appreciation for FLW’s “organic architecture” garnered him a place among the top designers in South Orange County. Chris wanted his homes to have that organic, cohesive look – all elements belonged together ­– like geometric massing, strong horizontal lines, and wide unobstructed views through massive glazing. He loved natural materials like wood and stone. Like FLW, Chris’ open floor plans were the antithesis of the confined, closed in spaces of some traditional styles.

*** To read more about the Abel Family Legacy click on the photos below. ***