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Frank Lloyd Wright was an American architect, designer, writer, and educator. He is widely considered one of the most influential figures in the history of American architecture. He was born in Richland Center, Wisconsin, in 1867 and began his architectural apprenticeship in 1887. Throughout his 70-year career, Wright developed a unique and highly influential architectural style, which he called "Organic Architecture." This style emphasized using natural materials and sought to integrate buildings into their surrounding landscapes.
Wright is perhaps best known for his residential designs, including the iconic "Prairie style" houses he designed in the early 20th century. These houses featured low, horizontal lines, wide overhangs, and an emphasis on natural light. He also designed several iconic commercial and public buildings, including the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City, the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, and the Johnson Wax Headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin.
Wright's influence on architecture is still felt today, and many of his buildings are considered architectural masterpieces. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal. He died in 1959, but his work and legacy inspire architects and designers worldwide.
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Frank Lloyd Wright is closely associated with the Chicago suburb of Oak Park, Illinois. He lived and worked in Oak Park for over 20 years, from 1889 to 1909, during which time he designed and built many of his most famous and influential buildings. During this period, Wright established his architectural practice in Oak Park and developed over 100 buildings in the area, including houses, churches, and commercial buildings.
Many of Wright's buildings in Oak Park are considered some of his most important works and are now part of the Frank Lloyd Wright-Prairie School of Architecture Historic District. These include his own home and studio, which he built in 1889 and where he lived and worked for 20 years, and several of his famous "Prairie style" houses. These houses are known for their low, horizontal lines, wide overhangs, and emphasis on natural light and integration with the surrounding landscape. Today, Oak Park is home to the most extensive collection of Wright-designed buildings open to the public, making it a popular destination for architecture enthusiasts and Wright fans.
Wright's time in Oak Park was crucial to his development as an architect. The buildings he designed there continue to be studied and admired by architects, designers, and the general public. Oak Park is considered one of the best places to explore the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. The Frank Lloyd Wright Trust offers tours of several of his buildings in Oak Park, including his home and studio, which provide a unique insight into Wright's life and work during this period.
The Wright Plus Housewalk is a highly-regarded event that offers unique tours of homes and public buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and other architects. The event takes place in Oak Park, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago known for its numerous Wright-designed structures.
During the event, homeowners open their private residences to visitors, showcasing original exterior features and interiors that have been personalized to reflect their individual styles. Tours, led by knowledgeable guides, provide insights into the history and architectural elements that make each home unique. Attendees can expect an enjoyable, informative, and inspiring day considered the "pinnacle of house walks." The proceeds from the event support the preservation and education programs of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust.
2023 Wright Plus Housewalk
This year, enthusiasts can prepare for an all-Oak Park line-up of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes as the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust's Wright Plus Housewalk returns on May 20, 2023. Ticket sales officially opened on January 1, so now is the time to plan ahead and secure your spot before the popular event sells out.
This year's tour will showcase three of Wright's residences, including:
The Thomas and Laura Gale House (1892)
The Rollin and Elizabeth Furbeck House (1897)
The Arthur and Grace Heurtley House (1902)
Additionally, the walk will also include five private, historic homes such as:
The Maurice and Lillian Lowrey House (c. 1891)
The Charles and Alma Schwerin House (E.E. Roberts, 1908)
The Dale and Eva Bumstead House (Tallmadge & Watson, 1909)
The Edward and Annie Cronwall House (James K. Cady, 1909)
The E.E. and Rossie Roberts House (E.E. Roberts, 1911)
Wright Plus Ultimate Weekend Package
There is a Wright Plus Ultimate Weekend Package for the ultimate enthusiasts, sure to impress.
Ticket holders will experience an unforgettable weekend with an all-access pass to various exclusive Wright-focused activities.
The 3-night package includes:
An exclusive tour of "Wright in Nature."
Priority entry to the all-day Wright Plus Housewalk
A private lunch at the historic Nineteenth Century Club in Oak Park
Unique dinners centered on the work of Frank Lloyd Wright
Luxurious hotel accommodations at the landmark Carleton of Oak Park
Transportation to and from all events
There is also an option for the "Ultimate Saturday."
The "Ultimate Saturday" is a one-day package that offers a selection of the best experiences from the "Ultimate Plus" package, including:
Priority entry to the all-day Wright Plus Housewalk
A private lunch at the historic Nineteenth Century Club in Oak Park
Unique dinners centered on the work of Frank Lloyd Wright.
So whether you're in it for the weekend or just for the day, meet us in Oak Park to explore the beauty that is Frank Lloyd Wright.