Early twentieth century
In the first decade of the twentieth century, Frank Lloyd Wright developed the Prairie style through his work in and around Oak Park, Illinois. Broad roofs and strong horizontal lines gave these houses a close visual relationship to the Midwestern landscape.
The approach extended beyond the exterior. Interior spaces, furnishings, and patterned windows worked together as parts of a coordinated design. Wright's leaded glass combined geometric patterns with views and daylight, making windows both useful building elements and carefully composed surfaces.
What to look for
- Emphasis on horizontal lines
- Broad, projecting roof eaves
- Geometric window patterns