Well-known architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s historic house and design studio was first built in 1889. He was just 22 years old and needed a $5,000 loan from his employer. Wow, those were the days!
He and his family lived there until 1909 and helped raise six children during his time living there, now known as one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. In 1910 it was bought and turned into an apartment building, where it ended up in disrepair as the owners were not able to afford upkeep. In 1974 a 13-year restoration began after the property was handed over to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Now, more than ever before, this home is filled with innovative, gorgeous, and thought-provoking designs, and is now a protected National Historic Landmark.
Visitors to Oak Park can tour this historic home during the annual May house walk, hosted by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust. We highly recommend this tour to any architects or architecture enthusiasts; the Preservation Trust has done a wonderful job keeping this property’s history alive.
