East Norriton's Weiss House, Designed By Noted Architect, At Risk

EAST NORRITON, PA — A compelling example of historic and unique architecture here in Montgomery County is in danger of demolition, a leading advocacy organization says.

East Norriton's Morton and Lenore Weiss House, designed by world famous architect Louis Kahn alongside Anne Tyng, was recently put on the "at risk list" by Preservation Pennsylvania.

Kahn was one of the most noted architects of his time, with highlights on his resume such as the Salk Institute, the Yale University Art Gallery, and the Kimbell Art Museum. Of his numerous residential designs, only nine were ever made. Weiss House, at 2935 Whitehall Road, is one of them.

In 2016, after the property fell into the hands of a local developer, there was an attempt to build a subdivision with a high-rise senior housing center. However, the plan faced backlash and was ultimately rejected by the township. The house became a landmark on the East Norriton Historical Advisory Committee's list, officials said.

However, according to advocates, the greatest danger the home now faces is neglect. The property has been leased, they say, and "lack of heating and deferred maintenance is taking its toll," Julia Chain, program director at Preservation Pennsylvania, said.

Preservationists hope for a preservation easement for the property, which would protect it in the case of future developments.

In addition to the unique design of the home, built from 1947 to 1950, it also includes a rare Kahn mural of Pennsylvania farmland, which features the Weiss family's black an white dalmation.

Image via Google