The use of natural materials in flooring was of great significance in Prairie School design for several reasons:
1. Connection to nature: Prairie School architects aimed to create a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. By using natural materials like wood, stone, and clay tiles, they sought to bring the beauty of the natural world inside the buildings. This connection to nature was one of the key principles of Prairie School design.
2. Organic aesthetic: Prairie School design rejected the ornamentation and excesses of the Victorian era, favoring instead a more organic and simple aesthetic. Natural materials like hardwood floors and stone tiles were chosen for their inherent beauty and texture, which enhanced the visual appeal of the spaces without the need for excessive decoration.
3. Integration with the landscape: Prairie School architects aimed to create buildings that harmonized with their surroundings. The use of natural materials in flooring helped to integrate the architecture with the landscape. For example, stone floors could transition seamlessly from the interior spaces to the exterior terraces, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.
4. Craftsmanship and quality: Prairie School design emphasized craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials. Natural materials like hardwood floors not only added visual appeal but also conveyed a sense of durability and craftsmanship. These materials were carefully selected and meticulously crafted to create a timeless and enduring quality in the architecture.
Overall, the use of natural materials in flooring in Prairie School design served to create a sense of harmony with nature, enhance the aesthetic appeal, integrate the architecture with the landscape, and convey a sense of craftsmanship and quality.
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