Mahopac, NY — Petra Island is proud to announce that the Massaro family was honored this past June with the prestigious 2026 USModernist Pinnacle Award. Presented by George Smart, founder of USModernist, the award recognizes the Massaro Families extraordinary dedication to architectural preservation and his monumental effort in bringing one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most ambitious designs to life.
In 1950, Frank Lloyd Wright drafted the plans for a spectacular residence intended for the rugged landscape of Petra Island. For half a century, the design remained unbuilt, existing only as a visionary set of blueprints rolled up in a closet of the original owners. Joe Massaro, in collaboration with architect Thomas Heinz, and contractor Lidia Wusatowska undertook the daunting task of constructing this masterpiece, spending years and investing a considerable fortune to realize the 5,000-square-foot structure of cantilevered concrete, mahogany, and glass.
The achievement is all the more remarkable given the site’s challenging conditions—a naturally heart shaped island reachable only by boat on a lake that hadn’t frozen in years.. Through Massaro’s perseverance and commitment to Wright’s original vision, the home now stands as a testament to American architectural history and Massaro states “I really enjoyed doing this project. I did a lot of work myself. I installed all the copper panels, all the light rails around the patios and all the air-conditioning ductwork. I lived in this house for 20 years before I realized other people would be interested in visiting it! When communities like the USModernest group and people like George Smart, who really knows his houses, recognize the work it took and appreciate the outcome, it makes all of the challenges worth it. My family and I are honored and humbled to accept his award.”
Reflecting on the achievement, George Smart, founder of USModernist, stated: “It was my great pleasure to present the USModernist 2026 Pinnacle Award to Joe Massaro and the Massaro family. In 1950, Frank Lloyd Wright drew the plans for a spectacular house for the rocky Petra Island and then it sat, unbuilt, for half a century. Joe Massaro working with architect Thomas Heinz spent years and a considerable fortune bringing 5,000 square feet of cantilevered concrete, mahogany, and glass up to code on a granite outcrop reachable only by boat in a climate that punishes ambition. Thanks to the Massaro’s, thousands of people have stood inside a Wright-designed space that would otherwise exist only on paper.”
Today, the Massaro House—along with the Chahroudi House—are the closest Frank Lloyd Wright homes to NYC that are open for touring. By transforming the main house designs from paper to reality, and restoring the original Chahroudi Cottage that FLW himself visited, the Massaro family has ensured that Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy endures for future generations to study and enjoy.
For more information about Petra Island, the Chahroudi House, or the Massaro House, please visit www.wrightoverwater.com or contact family member Jennifer at visitus@wrightoverwater.com.
About Petra Island
Petra Island is home to two significant architectural works: the Frank Lloyd Wright built Chahroudi House and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Massaro House. Located on a private island, these properties serve as a destination for those interested in mid-century and organic architecture, offering unique opportunities to experience world-class design in an unparalleled natural setting. Boat rides included in every tour!
Media Contact: Jennifer Massaro Derocher
Live Life Wright