LongHouse Reserve

A 16-acre property in East Hampton, NY, owned and created by internationally acclaimed textile designer Jack Lenor Larsen, LongHouse Reserve is a remarkable integration of nature, art, and design. Its gardens present landscapes as an art form. Collections of conifers, flowering trees, ornamental grasses, and other perennials – plus hundreds of thousands of daffodils – offer visitors a living catalogue of plants and plantings for the region, through all four seasons. Each year, LongHouse presents major art exhibitions, both indoors and out, including its expanding “Sculpture in the Garden” program. Over time, Larsen has assembled more than sixty contemporary sculptures on the grounds. Educational tours, family activities, festivals, and workshops further engage the surrounding Long Island community.

TIMELINE

2020
Jack Lenor Larsen passes away at his home, LongHouse Reserve, on December 22, 2020, at the age of 93. 

2017
Jack Lenor Larsen celebrates his 90th birthday. The film Larsenworld premieres, telling the story of the design icon's career and his creation of LongHouse Reserve.

2016
Learning from LongHouse, containing photos of the gardens and art of LongHouse Reserve, is published by Pointed Leaf Press.

2012
We complete garden assessment report and a statement of significance. Implementation of garden action plan begins, including circulation, signage, maintenance, and documentation.

2011
LongHouse Reserve is designated as a partner in our Preservation program. That same year three natural pyramids are installed in the property’s rear corner.

1997
Educational Committee is formed, providing educators with opportunities to incorporate the arts into their core curricula. Buckminster Fuller and John Kuhtik’s 33-foot sculpture, Fly’s Eye Dome, is installed on the property.

1996
The first administrative staff is hired. Jack Larsen serves as president until 2006.

1991
The former LongHouse Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is reestablished as LongHouse Reserve. A reflecting pool is added to the property the following year.

1986
Construction of LongHouse, Larsen’s home, begins. Designed by Larsen in collaboration with architect Charles Forberg, the building is based on Japan’s ancient Ise Shrine. An amphitheater and majestic red garden are added soon after.

1975
Larsen purchases a 16-acre parcel of former farming land in the Great North Woods section of Long Island’s East Hampton Township. He begins to make way for 100,000 different plants.

1952
Jack Lenor Larsen launches his now-famous textile design company in New York City.

For more information, visit longhousereserve.org.