Set behind a veil of mature trees on 6.58 acres in one of Rochester’s most coveted locations, this home is a rare offering that transcends the ordinary. Designed by architect John Howe, a chief draftsman and protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, this remarkable residence embodies a distinctive architectural heritage rarely found in the Rochester market. Built in 1987 and cherished by the same owner ever since, the property has been thoughtfully preserved as both a private sanctuary and a reflection of its architect’s vision. Its setting is exceptionally private, surrounded by nature and expansive grounds, yet ideally positioned within a premier area of Rochester. Inside, six bedrooms and four bathrooms unfold across a residence defined by craftsmanship, natural materials, and enduring design. The main level showcases Howe’s thoughtful use of geometric forms and natural light, creating a distinctive sense of movement and openness throughout the living spaces. Philippine mahogany cabinetry and Kasota stone flooring bring warmth, texture, and a sense of permanence to the interiors, creating a home that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. The kitchen, completely remodeled in 2015, marries refined finishes with the functionality expected of a contemporary luxury home. Premium appliances are complemented by stone countertops, a pot filler, wine refrigerator, and warming drawer, creating an inviting culinary space designed equally for everyday enjoyment and elegant entertaining. The primary bathroom was also fully remodeled in 2015, thoughtfully enhancing the home while respecting its architectural character. Beyond the walls, the landscape provides an extraordinary sense of place. A private swimming pool is set against a dramatic quarry stone wall, creating a striking natural backdrop and an exceptional setting for summer gatherings, quiet afternoons, and entertaining beneath the surrounding canopy. There is a sense of permanence here that is increasingly difficult to find. The architecture, the acreage, the privacy, the craftsmanship, and the remarkable history come together to create something much more meaningful than a residence. This is an opportunity to become the next steward of a distinctive piece of Rochester’s architectural heritage, a property shaped by the influence of John Howe and the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright, and a truly special home that has been thoughtfully held by one owner for nearly four decades.
Folwell, located between Downtown Rochester and the Zumbro River corridor, is a residential and civic Rochester neighborhood with leafy blocks and a walkable park-and-trail feel. The neighborhood’s character concentrates around the Mayo Civic Center and Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial, where event crowds, riverfront paths, and downtown storefronts set the pace. Housing leans toward mid-century ramblers and tidy infill, with pockets of older homes closer to the river. Silver Lake Park frames daily routines with shoreline loops and open lawns. The Zumbro River Trail stitches together parks, bridges, and downtown streetscapes. Cafes and galleries along nearby 1st Avenue SW add a low-key, urban edge.
Provided by Walk Score and Local Logic
Market insights
3452 Mayowood Rd SW · $1,950,000
DAYS ON MARKET
1 days
The average home goes pending in 21 days.
SALE-TO-LIST
99.4%
Most homes are selling 1% below list price.
LIST PRICE
$1,950,000
Median sale price in this area is $378,658. (81% lower than this home)
PRICE DROP
0 price drops
26% of homes in this area have had a price drop in the past month.
Property details
Interior
Exterior
Finance
Interior features
Finished basement
Two fireplaces
Main floor primary suite
Three bedrooms on one level and four bedrooms on one level (flexible bedroom layout)
Bedrooms
Six total bedrooms
Bathrooms
Three full bathrooms
One half bathroom
Laundry & utility
Laundry located in the basement
Heating & cooling
Forced air heating
Central air conditioning
Exterior features
Composite decking and deck
Stucco exterior
Chain link fencing
Irregular lot with heavy tree coverage
Located atop a hill accessed via a paved driveway
Home design
Residential property
One level
Poured concrete foundation
Parking
Asphalt driveway
2-car garage
Construction
Poured concrete foundation
Roof older than eight years
Utilities
Well water
Septic system (compliant)
Natural gas
Other
Property sits on approximately 6.58 acres (dimensions 492 x 880)
Above grade finished area 2,318; below grade finished area 2,086; total living area 4,404
Total building area 4,636
Directions: From Hwy 52 take Salem Rd, turn left on Bamber Valley Rd SW, then right on Mayowood Rd. Continue up the paved driveway; house is on the top of the hill.
Electricity and solar
View estimated energy costs and solar savings for this home
The purpose of this district is to provide for low density residential development in those areas described as Suburban Subdivision Area within the Comprehensive Plan that have suitable soils for long-term private sewage systems and those areas suitable for Low Density Residential within the Urban Service or Reserve Area served by Public or other centralized sewage collection and treatment system.
Permitted uses
Include but are not limited to:
Housing-Group
Housing-Single unit
Climate risks
1/10 Flood Factor
Minimal risk of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
1/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 98° expected this year, 15 days in 30 years
2/10 Wind Factor
Minor risk of severe winds over next 30 years
2/10 Air Factor
1 unhealthy days expected this year, 1 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Rochester, MN • 55902
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
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7
31
15
49
29
57
39
69
49
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82
65
77
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76
56
64
46
45
31
29
15
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Sun exposure
In this area, properties receive around 9.7 hours in
June and 3.6 hours in December, placing it below the
U.S. average for solar exposure.
9.7 hrs
3.6 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 3452 Mayowood Rd SW
$1,977,215
$27K over list price of $1.95M
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 5 recent nearby sales, priced between $960K to $1.8M.