Prairie School architects, such as Frank Lloyd Wright, considered indoor and outdoor water features as integral elements of their designs. Here are some ways they approached the design of these features:
1. Integration with nature: Prairie School architects believed in creating harmonious connections between architecture and its surroundings. They carefully placed water features, such as fountains or pools, to interact with the natural landscape. The goal was to make the water elements appear as if they were natural features, seamlessly blending with the environment.
2. Organic shapes and materials: Prairie School architecture emphasized using natural materials and organic forms. Water features were designed in a way that mimicked the flow and movement found in nature, with gently curving lines and irregular shapes. Materials like stone, concrete, or natural rocks were often used to construct these features, enhancing their connection to the outdoor environment.
3. Horizontal emphasis: Prairie School architects embraced the horizontal line as a defining characteristic of their designs, reflecting the flat and expansive Midwest landscape. Water features were often elongated and positioned horizontally, emphasizing this horizontal aspect and promoting a sense of tranquility and calmness.
4. Functionality and simplicity: While ornamental water features existed before the Prairie School movement, Prairie School architects focused on simplicity and functionality. Water elements often served multiple purposes, such as providing a cooling effect, acting as a reflecting pool to enhance views, or integrating with the architecture to create a visually appealing space.
5. Emphasis on sound and sight: Prairie School architects recognized the sensory experience that water can provide. They intentionally designed these features to create soothing sounds of flowing or trickling water, which added to the overall ambiance. Water features were often located near gathering areas, such as outdoor seating or pergolas, allowing residents to enjoy both the visual and auditory aspects of the water elements.
Overall, Prairie School architects approached the design of indoor and outdoor water features by paying close attention to their integration with nature, using organic shapes/materials, emphasizing the horizontal aspect, ensuring functionality, and creating a harmonious sensory experience.
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