Faubus House Tours Coming Soon - Fall and Winter 2024

Faubus House, Huntsville, AR - Image courtesy Chari Cross, Faubus House Archives

The Conservancy plans to host tours this fall and winter of the Orval Faubus House, one of Fay Jones’ largest residential designs. The Faubus house, completed in 1967, sits on a steep bluff located east of Huntsville known as “Governor’s Hill,” as the property was previously home to Arkansas Governor Isaac Murphy (1866-1888) prior to its acquisition by Faubus.  At nearly 7,500 square feet, the house is one of Jones’ largest designs. Despite its size, it appears relatively quiet and modest from the front approach. Its windows are protected by deep shadows cast by wide, Japanese-inspired eaves clad with wood shake roofing, silvery-gray like the bark on a pine tree. Upon entry, this exterior modesty transforms into soaring, light filled ceilings held aloft by heroic stone pillars and graceful wooden beams. 

The house is also a triumph of Arkansas craftsmanship. As in many of his projects, Jones assembled a team of skilled carpenters and stonemasons, many of whom only had completed an eighth-grade education, to create the intricate details and motifs that echo throughout the house. Visible in the handles, millwork, trim, chimneys, and lanterns is their dedication to perfection. This extraordinary use of natural materials and exquisite craftsmanship is what gives the architecture of Fay Jones its aesthetic dignity.

We would love to have you join us for a tour of this unique and beautiful house and to see Jones’ work in person. Please stay tuned for more information and tour dates, coming soon!