The use of natural materials in landscaping was significant in Prairie School design for several reasons:
1. Integration with the environment: Prairie School design sought to create a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural surroundings. The use of natural materials such as stone, wood, and plants helped to blur the boundaries between the architecture and the landscape, enhancing the sense of harmony and unity.
2. Symbolism of the prairies: The Prairie School movement originated in the Midwest, where the vast prairies were a dominant feature of the landscape. By incorporating native materials and vegetation, architects and landscapers aimed to celebrate the unique character of the region and evoke a sense of nostalgia for the disappearing prairie landscapes.
3. Organic and honest design: Prairie School architecture and landscaping rejected ornate and artificial elements, favoring simple, honest, and functional designs. Natural materials, with their inherent beauty and authenticity, were seen as an expression of this philosophy. They were valued for their durability, sustainability, and ability to age gracefully over time.
4. Connection to the Arts and Crafts movement: Prairie School design was influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized the importance of handcrafted and natural materials. Like its architectural counterparts, Prairie School landscaping focused on the use of local materials, emphasizing craftsmanship and a return to simpler, more rooted aesthetics.
5. Sense of place: The use of natural materials allowed the landscape to blend in with its surroundings, creating a sense of belonging and attachment to the site. By using materials native to the region, designers aimed to reinforce a sense of place and establish a stronger connection between people, architecture, and the natural world.
Overall, the use of natural materials in Prairie School landscaping was central to the movement's philosophy of creating harmonious and integrated designs that respected the environment and celebrated the unique character of the region.
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