Fred Robertson Residence
2219 Washington Boulevard
Victor J. DeFoe and Maurice Carroll, Associated Architect
Built 1922-23

A compact and highly original adaptation of the Italian Renaissance style, with many eclectic features seemingly typical of the work of Louis Curtiss, including volumetric expression of interior spaces, polychrome decoration, planters, and a marked horizontal disposition under the broad tile roof. Typical of DeFoe's work, and that of other avant-garde architects of the period, is the careful placement of the house on the site so that it becomes almost a feature of its natural surroundings. Of particular note is the one-and-one-half story living room at the center of the composition, approached indirectly from the front door around the back of the great chimney. A pen and ink rendering of the house was included in a March 16, 1924 advertisement for Westheight Manor in the Kansas City Kansan.