The concept of "truth to materials" was a central principle embraced by Prairie School architects in their selection and expression of materials. This principle emphasized the honest and transparent use of materials, emphasizing their natural qualities and avoiding excessive ornamentation or disguise.
Prairie School architects, led by prominent figures like Frank Lloyd Wright, believed that materials should be used in their purest form, revealing their inherent qualities and textures. For this reason, they often chose materials like wood, stone, and brick, which could be used in a way that showcased their natural beauty. Wood, in particular, was a preferred material, as it could be left exposed to let its grain and color shine through.
The architects also expressed the natural qualities of materials through their structural design. They believed that a building's structure should be evident and celebrated, using materials in a way that emphasized their load-bearing capabilities and overall functionality. The use of large horizontal bands of brick or stone, for example, showcased their strength and solidity while expressing an organic, earthy aesthetic.
Moreover, Prairie School architects paid careful attention to the interaction between interior and exterior spaces, blurring the boundaries between the inside and outside. This was achieved by using materials that could seamlessly connect the building with its natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows, for instance, allowed for unobstructed views of the landscape and brought natural light and ventilation into the interior spaces, creating a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature.
Overall, Prairie School architects embraced "truth to materials" by selecting materials that could be used in their purest form, exposing their natural qualities and textures. Through this approach, they aimed to create buildings that celebrated the inherent beauty of materials while integrating them harmoniously with their surroundings.
Publication date: