What was the role of the skylight in Prairie School design?

In Prairie School design, the skylight played a significant role in bringing natural light into the interior spaces of a building. It served as a way to enhance the connection between the indoors and outdoors, which was an essential principle of this architectural style. The skylight was typically incorporated in the central areas of the building, such as the main living spaces, dining rooms, or central halls, allowing for a consistent light source throughout the day.

The skylight was often placed on the roofs of the buildings and was designed to have a large, horizontal shape, resembling a long rectangular or square opening. This elongated shape allowed for a greater amount of light to filter into the interior spaces, emphasizing the emphasis on open, flowing spaces in Prairie School design.

Moreover, the skylight had a dramatic impact on the overall aesthetic of the interior. The natural light coming through the skylight created beautiful and ever-changing patterns of shadows and light, which added a sense of dynamism and beauty to the spaces. It also contributed to a more organic and harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding nature, aligning with the nature-inspired philosophy of the Prairie School.

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