the Mark Pike

“Never Built Virginia offers examples of structures that never were and poses the question, “What if?” In the age of recycling, redevelopment, and reuse, it is appropriate to revisit these frustrated ventures, lost competitions, and unrealized commissions.”

I really enjoyed reading about all the cool buildings in Virginia that never existed, which lead me down the rabbit hole to architect Haigh Jamgochian’s papers.

Howard Hughes, also known as “Dapper Dan The Used Car Man,” reportedly contacted Jamgochian telling him he would like a residence designed for his property along the James River that was “out of this world.” Jamgochian’s response, “How about the moon?” Thus began the germination of the “Moon House” concept.

Here’s a rendering of ‘Tree House’, which would’ve been on Franklin Street in Richmond, Virginia if Jamgochian had his way in 1962.