March 07, 2025
The Alden B. Dow Home & Studio is pleased to announce that for the first time in its 85-year history, the Dorothy Dow Arbury Residence, a masterwork designed by her brother, Michigan’s Architect Laureate, Alden B. Dow F.A.I.A., will be open to the public for one day of guided tours on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Nestled along the Chippewa River in Midland, Michigan, this stunning Mid-Century Modern home offers seclusion, stunning river views, and a deep connection to nature. Using Dow’s patented unit block construction, the residence shares a structural resemblance to his own Home & Studio but was uniquely tailored to Dorothy’s preferences, most notably, her love of the color pink.
A mile-long driveway leads to the motor court, welcoming you to the Arbury Home. Upon entering the front door, the bedroom wing is immediately to the left. Three bedrooms for the Arbury’s four children lead to the primary bedroom, which features expertly-crafted built-in wood cabinetry that creates utility and beauty. Adding to its quiet and open feeling, Dow unites the space’s varying angles with the beautifully curved break in the ceiling.
Opposite from the bedroom wing, the home unfolds into the kitchen, dining room, and now enclosed and expanded porch. The dining room is a striking space, with its elegant, tall, rose-mirrored walls, and a ceiling grid of 36 square mirrors, each corner illuminated by small lights.
As the centerpiece of the home, the living room features two walls of glass spanning 30’ wide x 9’ high, offering magnificent panoramic views of the Chippewa River and surrounding wooded landscape. The open and gracious living area accommodates for large gatherings but also offers an intimate sunken seating area with a built-in curved couch centered around the corner fireplace.
Located on the lower level, the game room was originally a mural-like playland of intersecting geometry, colors, shapes, and fanciful lighting. Varying ceiling and floor heights, in addition to a focused fireplace, delineated the room for a host of activities. Several areas on the lower level originally designed for staff bedrooms and living area are now used for office space and storage. The original laundry room connects the home to the boiler room and garages through an underground maintenance tunnel.
Historically, the estate supported agricultural activities including Black Angus cattle and Shire horses. Barns for these activities were added and reflect the home’s countryside setting.
Dorothy Dow Arbury, known for her quiet warmth and generosity, was the youngest daughter of Herbert H. Dow and Grace Ball Dow. She was a passionate advocate for the Midland community and championed many projects like the King’s Daughters Home and the Chippewa Nature Center.
Although interior modifications have been made, the original design and integrity of the home has been retained by two generations of the Arbury Family. Currently unfurnished and for sale, it allows you to imagine how you could live in the home today. Historic photos are placed throughout the residence to reveal its original beauty and rich history.
Tours are a one-hour experience available every hour to a maximum capacity of 15 people per tour. Additional time slots may be added based on demand. The event costs $40. Proceeds from this event will support the preservation and the educational programming of the Alden B. Dow Home & Studio. Pre-registration is required. No photos or recording devices of any kind will be permitted. Parking for the tour will be available off-site; instructions will be provided in the reservation confirmation or by calling (989) 839-2744. This event is open to guests 8 years and older.
This secluded piece of Midland’s Mid-Century Modern architectural history will be open for public viewing for one day only.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity, reserve your tickets at abdow.org or directly from our booking website.
