Prairie Style

3 Pages 749 Words

During the beginning of 20th century a new architectural style started gain popularity among a group of Chicago architects, a distinct mid-western residential style known as the Prairie Style. They rejected the popular architectural styles during those days which were generally revivals of historic styles, instead they tried to create buildings which were harmonized with the Midwestern prairie. There have been lots of different modernization attempts in architecture history probably the most successful among those that considered to be the first truly modern architectural design and style is the prairie style.

Probably one of the most famous architects of this style was Frank Lloyd Wright. He believed that “a design drew its beauty from within, from its own structure, rather than from applied decoration.” Wright created the idea of "organic architecture." The main principle of this belief is that the building should develop out of its natural surroundings.

Between the years 1893 and 1901, which are known as the architect’s early years, 49 buildings were built which were designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. His early houses were perfect examples showing his unique talent as a young architect. They all had their own, characteristic style, reminding of a horizontal plane, with no basements or attics. Built with natural materials and never painted, Wright utilized low-pitched rooflines with deep overhang and uninterrupted walls and windows to merge the horizontal homes into their environments. He built large brick fireplaces in the heart of the home, and made the internal space flow into one another.

He believed in the idea that he had created and what he called “Organic Architecture”, by which he meant that a house must grow out of the needs of the people and the character of the country like a living organism. By rejecting using all ornaments, Wright broke with the traditions of many centuries. This makes those ideas rev...