Unity Temple: A Prairie School Masterpiece

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.