Walter Gale House: A Queen Anne Gem by Wright
A Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Queen Anne home in Oak Park, showcasing his early architectural style with a distinctive circular turret.
The Walter Gale House, situated in the charming Chicago suburb of Oak Park, Illinois, holds a significant place in architectural history as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's earliest independent commissions. Designed in 1893, it represents a transitional phase in Wright's career, bridging the gap between the traditional Queen Anne style and the innovative Prairie School that would later define his legacy. Commissioned by Walter H. Gale, a member of a prominent Oak Park family, the house stands as a testament to Wright's burgeoning design philosophy. It was the first project he undertook after departing from the firm of Adler & Sullivan, marking the beginning of his independent practice. The house reflects the influence of his mentor, Louis Sullivan, while also hinting at the geometric direction Wright would soon embrace. The house's exterior is distinguished by a striking circular turret, a defining element of its facade. This rounded feature is balanced by a narrow, angular dormer, creating a dynamic interplay of shapes. Inside, the primary bedroom on the second floor boasts a continuous band of curved windows with diamond-paned leaded glass, echoing a similar design in Wright's earlier William Winslow House. While the Walter Gale House is a private residence and not open for public tours, its exterior can be admired from the street. Its location on Chicago Avenue places it within a short distance of other notable Wright-designed homes, making it a worthwhile stop on an architectural walking tour of Oak Park.
Local tips
- While the house is private, admire its architecture from the street and take photos.
- Combine your visit with a walk to other Frank Lloyd Wright homes in the neighborhood.
- Check out the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, located nearby, for a deeper dive into his work.
A brief summary to Walter Gale House - Frank Lloyd Wright
- 1031 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302, US
- +1312-994-4000
Getting There
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Walking
From the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, head west on Chicago Avenue. The Walter Gale House is located at 1031 Chicago Avenue, a short walk of approximately 0.3 miles. The walk should take less than 10 minutes.
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Public Transport
From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Green Line to the Harlem/Lake station. From there, you can take a short taxi or rideshare to the Walter Gale House. Alternatively, you can take the Pace bus Route 309 from the Harlem/Lake station to Chicago Avenue and walk a few blocks east to the house. CTA single ride fare is $2.50. Pace bus fare is also around $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Oak Park, a taxi or rideshare to the Walter Gale House will be a short trip. Expect to pay around $9-$15, depending on the service and time of day.
