Prairie School architects integrated the house with the surrounding landscape in several ways:
1. Low horizontal design: Prairie School architects designed houses with low roofs and long, horizontal lines that mimicked the flatness of the Midwestern landscape. This helped the houses blend into the natural surroundings and appear more harmonious with the landscape.
2. Open floor plans: They used open floor plans that connected different areas of the house and allowed for a seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors. Large windows and glass doors were incorporated to bring in ample natural light and provide views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Terraces and balconies: Prairie School houses often featured terraces and balconies that extended the living space outside. These outdoor areas were designed to overlook gardens, lawns, or natural landscapes, allowing residents to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings from the comfort of their homes.
4. Native materials: The architects used natural materials that were locally available and matched the colors and textures found in the landscape. Earthy tones, such as brick, stone, and wood, were commonly used to blend the built environment with the natural environment.
5. Integration of gardens and landscaping: Prairie School architects emphasized the integration of gardens and landscaping with the house design. Houses were positioned in a way that worked with the topography of the site, and carefully planned gardens, with native plants and geometric patterns, were created to enhance the overall aesthetic and connection with the landscape.
Overall, Prairie School architects sought to create a harmonious relationship between the house and its natural context, as they believed that architecture should be an integral part of the landscape, rather than standalone objects.
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