Frederick C. Robie House: A Prairie School Masterpiece

The Frederick C. Robie House, completed in 1910, stands as the quintessential expression of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie style and a precursor to modernism in architecture. Commissioned by Frederick C. Robie, the house is more than just a building; it's a statement of Wright's vision for a new American architecture, one that responded to the expansive Midwestern landscape. The Robie House is characterized by its strong horizontal lines, low-pitched roofs, and long bands of windows, all designed to mimic the flat, expansive plains of the Midwest. Wright's meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the house, from the art glass windows that blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces to the custom-designed furniture and light fixtures. The interior of the Robie House is equally remarkable, featuring an open floor plan centered around a main hearth, a departure from the traditional warren of rooms in Victorian-era homes. This open plan, combined with the abundant natural light that floods the interior, creates a sense of spaciousness and connection to the outdoors. Despite its architectural significance, the Robie House has experienced a tumultuous history. Robie was forced to sell the house after just 14 months due to financial difficulties. Over the years, the house served as a classroom building, dormitory, and office space before being taken under the wing of the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust. Today, the Robie House has been restored to its 1910 appearance and is open to the public for tours.