Prairie school

Definition

The prairie school refers to an architectural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily associated with Frank Lloyd Wright and his contemporaries. It emphasizes harmony with the landscape, open interior spaces, and horizontal lines that reflect the expansive Midwestern prairie. This style is characterized by its integration of architecture into its surroundings, which is a core principle of organic architecture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The prairie school emerged as a response to the ornate styles of Victorian architecture, prioritizing simplicity and functionality.
2. Frank Lloyd Wright was the leading figure of the prairie school, advocating for designs that were more attuned to the American landscape.
3. Characteristics of prairie school buildings include low-pitched roofs, wide overhanging eaves, and open floor plans that promote a sense of spaciousness.
4. The movement had a significant influence on modern architecture, laying groundwork for later styles like mid-century modern.
5. Prairie school architecture often utilized locally sourced materials to create a sense of place and community connection.

Review Questions

• How did the prairie school movement reflect the cultural values of America during its emergence?
  • The prairie school movement embodied American ideals of individualism and a connection to nature. By focusing on designs that harmonized with the natural landscape, architects like Frank Lloyd Wright promoted a vision of homes as part of the environment rather than imposing structures. This approach resonated with a growing appreciation for natural beauty and a desire for simpler living in contrast to the ornate styles of previous eras.
• In what ways did Frank Lloyd Wright's design principles exemplify the characteristics of prairie school architecture?
  • Frank Lloyd Wright's design principles are quintessentially prairie school through their emphasis on horizontal lines, open spaces, and integration with nature. He often designed structures with low profiles that echoed the flat expanse of the Midwestern landscape, using materials that reflected local geology. His innovative floor plans and use of natural light fostered an intimate relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, making his work a defining feature of this architectural movement.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the prairie school on contemporary architecture and urban planning.
  • The prairie school has had a lasting influence on contemporary architecture and urban planning by promoting ideas of sustainability, environmental integration, and community-focused design. Its principles encouraged architects to create spaces that respect their surroundings and cater to human needs over mere aesthetic considerations. This legacy can be seen in modern sustainable design practices that prioritize green building techniques and aim to foster connections between people and their environments, influencing how we think about urban spaces today.

Related terms

Organic Architecture: A design philosophy that seeks to create structures that are in harmony with their environment, emphasizing the connection between nature and built forms.

Craftsman Style: An architectural style that focuses on handcrafted details, natural materials, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, often seen in residential buildings from the same era as the prairie school.

Fallingwater:

A famous house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935, exemplifying prairie school principles by harmonizing with the natural landscape and incorporating natural materials.