Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Chicago

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio serves as a monumental piece in the architectural legacy of one of the 20th century's most influential architects. Initially constructed in 1889, this residence and workspace were extensively modified by Wright himself over the years, reflecting his evolving design philosophy. The building, which is furnished with original Wright-designed furniture and textiles, has been meticulously restored by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust to mirror its 1909 appearance—the last year Wright resided there with his family.

The structure itself integrates elements of the Shingle style, popular among the affluent East Coast society and favored by Wright's one-time employer, Joseph Lyman Silsbee. One of the most remarkable spaces within the home is the 1895 playroom designed for his children, which showcases an early use of architectural elements that Wright would refine throughout his career. The playroom features a high, barrel-vaulted ceiling supported by walls of Roman brick, with a central skylight adorned with wood grilles depicting stylized blossoms and seedpods, providing soft, natural light.

In 1898, the addition of a new Studio wing marked a significant expansion of Wright’s professional capabilities. Financed by a commission from the Luxfer Prism Company, the Studio was strategically positioned facing Chicago Avenue and connected to his residence via a corridor. This new wing included a reception hall that served dual purposes as a waiting area for clients and a space for Wright to discuss plans with contractors. The heart of this addition was the dramatic two-story drafting room, which became the creative epicenter of Wright’s architectural practice. Here, surrounded by expansive drafting tables and abundant natural light, Wright and his associates crafted designs that would revolutionize American architecture.

Today, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is not only a National Historic Landmark but also a key component of the Frank Lloyd Wright–Prairie School of Architecture Historic District. Visitors to the site can experience the intimate spaces where Wright conceived some of his most groundbreaking architectural ideas, making it a pilgrimage site for those captivated by architectural history and Wright’s enduring influence.