Architecture in Motion: Finding Inspiration on the Run

During my morning run in New Orleans, I stumbled upon a building that immediately caught my eye. Its sweeping horizontal lines, broad overhangs, and circular form all whispered of Frank Lloyd Wright’s influence. Nestled among the more traditional architecture of St. Charles Avenue, this modernist structure stood out—not in an overpowering way, but in a way that suggested thoughtful design, purpose, and a touch of rebellion against its more classical neighbors. Curious, I stopped to take a closer look.

The word “UNITY” was prominently displayed across its façade, hinting at its function as a gathering place. Something about it felt familiar, yet different. It had that organic flow reminiscent of Wright’s work—almost as if it belonged in Taliesin West or one of his Unitarian churches rather than in the heart of New Orleans.

After some research, I discovered that this was the Unity Temple of New Orleans, designed by Leonard R. Spangenberg Jr. in the early 1960s. Spangenberg wasn’t just any architect—he had been a Taliesin Fellow, studying directly under Frank Lloyd Wright. His time under Wright’s mentorship clearly shaped his approach, and it shows in this structure. The building’s intersecting domes, its seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, and its use of curved geometry all echo Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture—the idea that a building should exist in harmony with its surroundings.

Unlike the ornate iron-laced balconies of the French Quarter or the Greek Revival mansions of the Garden District, this building took a completely different approach to beauty. It wasn’t about decoration—it was about form, function, and flow. It was an expression of spirituality through space, an idea that Wright often explored in his religious and civic architecture. What I love most about moments like this—unexpected architectural finds during a run—is that they remind me of the endless layers of design hidden in our cities. Sometimes, you don’t have to visit a famous landmark or museum to experience great architecture. Sometimes, all it takes is a morning run, an open mind, and the willingness to stop and look.