The Prairie School architectural style, popularized by Frank Lloyd Wright, emerged in the early 20th century in the Midwest United States. Here are some distinguishing characteristics of Prairie School houses:
1. Horizontal emphasis: Prairie School houses typically feature a strong horizontality in their design, with low-pitched roofs, long horizontal lines, and wide overhanging eaves. This horizontal emphasis is meant to blend the house with its surrounding landscape.
2. Organic integration with nature: Prairie School houses often have an intimate connection with the natural environment. They incorporate elements such as large, unobstructed windows to bring in natural light and allow views of the outdoors. These windows often feature art glass or decorative geometric patterns inspired by nature.
3. Open floor plans: Prairie School houses emphasize open and flowing interiors, with spacious living areas. They typically have minimal use of partitions and abundant use of horizontal lines, creating a sense of continuity and spaciousness.
4. Cantilevered roofs: Prairie School houses often have cantilevered roofs that project out beyond the walls, providing shade and sheltering outdoor spaces. This design element helps to reinforce the horizontality of the building.
5. Natural materials: Prairie School houses commonly incorporate natural materials, such as stone, brick, and wood, in their construction. These materials are often left unpainted or in earthy tones to create a harmonious blend with the natural surroundings.
6. Integration of art and craft: Prairie School architecture emphasizes the synthesis of art and craft. It often incorporates intricate details in the form of decorative woodwork, stylized geometric patterns, and original furniture designs that are integrated into the overall architectural concept.
7. Emphasis on the hearth: Prairie School houses typically feature a central hearth or fireplace as a focal point, symbolizing the importance of family and gathering. This central core acts as a connector between the living spaces and emphasizes communal living.
8. Low profile and horizontal massing: Prairie School houses tend to be low-slung and horizontally oriented, blending into the flat landscape. They have a sense of grounding in the earth and are designed to be in harmony with their surroundings.
Overall, Prairie School houses embody a philosophy of harmonious integration with the natural environment, open and flowing spaces, and a celebration of craftsmanship and artistry.
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