Harry S. Adams House, Chicago

The Harry S. Adams House is the last of the homes Frank Lloyd Wright designed in this suburban Chicago area. Completed in 1913, this residence encapsulates the fully mature Prairie Style that Wright pioneered and perfected during his Oak Park period. The house's architectural features epitomize the distinct aesthetic principles of the Prairie Style, emphasizing horizontal lines, low proportions, and integration with the landscape, which all contribute to its distinctive appearance.

Prominent among its features is the very low hipped roof, which appears almost flat, enhancing the elongated, ground-hugging profile of the house. This is complemented by a broad central chimney that anchors the structure both visually and functionally. The house sits on a concrete stylobate, a feature that elevates it slightly, giving prominence to its horizontal emphasis while still maintaining a seamless connection with its surroundings. This foundation supports the lengthy, flat silhouette of the building, a hallmark of Wright’s designs during this period.

In a unique architectural choice for Wright’s residential designs, the Harry Adams House incorporates art glass windows exclusively on the top floor, adding a decorative yet functional element that allows light to permeate the interior while maintaining privacy and aesthetic continuity. Another distinctive feature of this house is its carport, a rarity among the Oak Park residences designed by Wright. The inclusion of a carport instead of a traditional garage reflects a forward-thinking approach to automotive culture, which was burgeoning at the time.

The Harry S. Adams House not only represents the culmination of Wright's work in Oak Park but also illustrates the architect's commitment to refining and advancing his vision for an American residential architecture. As a pristine example of the Prairie Style, this home serves as a fitting capstone to Wright’s prolific period in Oak Park, showcasing his mastery in crafting spaces that are both aesthetically compelling and intimately connected to their settings.