The Prairie School style of architecture emerged in the early 20th century in the United States, primarily in the Midwest region. The Prairie School Mansion house, also known as Prairie Style houses, was one of the prominent architectural forms of this movement. Some of the defining characteristics of a Prairie School Mansion house include:
1. Horizontal emphasis: Prairie School Mansion houses are characterized by their horizontal orientation, with long, low roofs that often have broad overhangs. The horizontal lines are meant to blend with the surrounding landscape.
2. Low-pitched roofs: The roofs of Prairie School Mansion houses are typically low-pitched and hipped, with extensions that create horizontal planes. The overhanging eaves often extend beyond the walls, emphasizing the horizontal lines.
3. Organic integration with nature: Prairie School architecture sought to blend with the natural environment, so these houses often have materials and colors that reflect the surrounding landscape. The buildings are designed to sit harmoniously on the site, incorporating natural elements such as stone, wood, and earthy tones.
4. Broad, open floor plans: Prairie School Mansion houses feature open, flowing floor plans that emphasize the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. They often have large, low-profile windows that allow for abundant natural light and create a sense of open and airy interiors.
5. Central fireplaces and hearths: A central fireplace or hearth is a common feature in Prairie School Mansion houses. It acts as a focal point for the interior spaces and often connects multiple rooms.
6. Integration of art glass: Prairie School architects often incorporated art glass, such as stained glass windows, into their designs. These elements added visual interest, diffused light, and created a sense of privacy while maintaining a connection to the natural surroundings.
7. Horizontal banding and trim: Prairie School Mansion houses frequently feature horizontal banding or decorative trim, often in contrasting colors, which accentuates the horizontal lines and creates visual interest.
8. Emphasis on craftsmanship: Prairie School architecture valued high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. These houses often feature intricate woodwork, custom-built furniture, and bespoke details throughout the interior and exterior.
Overall, Prairie School Mansion houses embody concepts of simplicity, functionality, and integration with nature. They aim to provide a sense of harmony between the built environment and its surroundings, emphasizing horizontal lines, natural materials, and open spaces.
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