Background

Edwin H. Cheney House: A Prairie School Gem

Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School masterpiece, the Edwin H. Cheney House, in Oak Park, Illinois. A landmark of architectural innovation.

4.3

The Edwin H. Cheney House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1903, is a captivating example of Prairie School architecture in Oak Park, Illinois. Its unique design emphasizes privacy and harmony with nature, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Edwin H. Cheney House - Frank Lloyd Wright

  • 520 N East Ave, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall to enjoy the surrounding gardens in full bloom.
  • Take a walking tour of the Oak Park neighborhood to see more of Wright's masterpieces nearby.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning architectural details from various angles around the house.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the 'L' train Blue Line towards Forest Park. Get off at the Oak Park station. Transfer to Pace bus Route 301 and ride for about 10 minutes. Get off at the stop on East Ave and North Blvd, a short 5-minute walk to the Edwin H. Cheney House at 520 N East Ave. Check current bus schedules and fares as they may vary. A single ride on the 'L' is $2.50, and a Pace bus single ride is $1.75.

  • Walking

    From the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, head south on Chicago Ave, then turn left onto Forest Ave. Walk south for several blocks, then turn right onto N East Ave. The Edwin H. Cheney House will be on your left at 520 N East Ave. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Edwin H. Cheney House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Edwin H. Cheney House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Nestled in the charming suburb of Oak Park, Illinois, the Edwin H. Cheney House stands as a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright's innovative Prairie School architecture. Built in 1903 for electrical engineer Edwin Cheney and his wife Mamah, the house embodies Wright's vision of blending humanity and nature. The house distinguishes itself with long horizontal lines, a low-pitched hipped roof, and an open interior layout that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape. A notable feature is the Roman brick wall that partially conceals the structure's basement, creating a sense of privacy and intimacy. The strategic placement of fifty-two windows allows ample natural light to flood the interior, softening the otherwise secluded atmosphere. The living rooms, trimmed in fir, form a single longitudinal space, divided by wooden posts and cabinets into a dining room, living room, and library. The Cheney House is also known for the scandalous love affair it sparked between Wright and Mamah Cheney. This affair led them to abandon their families and travel to Europe in 1909. Tragically, Mamah and her children were later murdered in 1914 at Wright's Wisconsin estate, Taliesin. Today, the Edwin H. Cheney House remains a significant landmark and a contributing property to the Frank Lloyd Wright-Prairie School of Architecture Historic District. While interior tours are not regularly available, visitors can admire its architectural significance from the outside and explore the surrounding neighborhood, which boasts other Wright-designed homes.

Popular Experiences near Edwin H. Cheney House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Popular Hotels near Edwin H. Cheney House - Frank Lloyd Wright

Select Currency