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Unity Temple: A Prairie School Masterpiece

Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's groundbreaking Unity Temple in Oak Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of modern architecture.

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Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the Prairie School style, Unity Temple in Oak Park, Illinois, stands as an early example of modern architecture. Completed in 1908, it's celebrated for its innovative use of reinforced concrete, geometric design, and the way it integrates natural light. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Unity Temple is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and those interested in Frank Lloyd Wright's work.

A brief summary to Unity Temple

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially if you're interested in the in-depth guided tour on Saturdays, as spaces are limited.
  • Consider visiting on a Saturday for a docent-led tour that includes areas typically closed to the public.
  • Take public transportation; the Oak Park station on the CTA Green Line is a short walk away.
  • Explore other Frank Lloyd Wright sites in Oak Park, such as his home and studio, to get a broader understanding of his work.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Green Line to the Oak Park station. The temple is a short walk north on Marion Street, then east on Lake Street. A single fare on the CTA is $2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, walk east on Chicago Avenue, then south on Kenilworth Avenue to Lake Street. Turn left onto Lake Street; the temple will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Driving

    From I-290, exit at Harlem Avenue (Route 43) and head north. Turn east (right) onto Lake Street. Unity Temple is on the southeast corner of Lake and Kenilworth. Metered street parking is available on Lake Street, but it's limited to one hour. The Lake Street Parking Garage at 954 Lake St is a convenient alternative. Parking rates typically range from $0.10 to a few dollars.

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Discover more about Unity Temple

Unity Temple, located in Oak Park, Illinois, is considered one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most important early works and a defining moment in modern architecture. Built between 1905 and 1908, it was commissioned by the Unitarian Universalist Congregation after their original church was destroyed by fire. Wright, a member of the congregation, designed the temple with a focus on unity, simplicity, and community. Constructed primarily of reinforced concrete, Unity Temple broke from traditional church designs, which often featured ornate decorations and spires. Instead, Wright created a monolithic structure with clean lines, geometric shapes, and a flat roof. The building comprises two main spaces: the sanctuary (auditorium) and Unity House (community space), connected by a low entrance pavilion. This design reflected the congregation's need for both a sacred space and a community gathering place. Inside, Wright emphasized natural light, using clerestory windows and skylights to illuminate the space. Stained glass in earth tones evokes nature and filters the light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The sanctuary features a centralized plan, promoting a sense of togetherness and eliminating traditional hierarchical seating arrangements. Unity Temple is not only an architectural marvel but also a testament to Wright's design philosophy. He believed in creating spaces that were both functional and beautiful, and that harmonized with their surroundings. The temple has undergone extensive restoration to preserve its original features and ensure its longevity. Today, visitors can explore Unity Temple through guided tours and self-guided audio tours, experiencing Wright's vision firsthand.

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