Oscar Balch House, Chicago

The Oscar Balch House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1911, is an exemplary piece of Wright's architectural prowess during his prolific years in Oak Park. Oscar B. Balch, a successful partner in the local decorating firm of W. and S. E. Pebbles, had previously collaborated with Wright in 1907 to remodel his company's storefront, which likely influenced his decision to commission Wright for the design of his family home.

Wright’s design for the Balch House cleverly conceals its entrance, creating a private, introspective environment that contrasts sharply with the openness inside. The exterior features sturdy walls around the terrace and the southern boundary of the property, forming a robust barrier that might seem imposing if not for Wright's strategic use of casement windows placed just below the roof's soffits. These windows, with their clear panes and wood mullions, not only bring in ample natural light but also soften the building's mass with their crisp, angular placement, enhancing the geometric aesthetics of the structure.

Internally, the Balch House reveals Wright’s genius in creating fluid, interconnected living spaces that maintain a sense of distinct function. The central feature of the house is a large Roman brick fireplace, flanked by slatted screens, which anchors the living space both physically and visually. The ground floor comprises the library, living room, and dining room, which are merged into a continuous open plan yet are subtly delineated by bands of wood that traverse the walls and ceilings. These wooden bands form sharp, geometric patterns that not only unify the different areas but also enhance the architectural rhythm of the space.

The Oscar Balch House stands today as a significant illustration of Wright’s middle career, where his designs began to fully articulate the principles of what would be known later as the Prairie School. This architectural style is renowned for its emphasis on horizontal lines, integration with the landscape, and fluid interior spaces.