Building History: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Lasting Impact on Chicago Architecture

Frank Lloyd Wright stands as one of the greatest American architects in history. From developing the Prairie style at the dawn of the 20th century to designing the affordable and well-crafted Usonian homes, his innovative vision continues to shape both residential homes and public buildings across Chicago, the Midwest, and beyond.

As Wright’s career progressed, one element remained consistent: his commitment to blending natural and modern materials, reflecting his belief in living in harmony with nature. While his influence can be seen across 33 states, it is perhaps in Chicago where his architectural legacy is most profound.

Wright’s Chicago Beginnings

Wright’s journey into architecture began in rural Wisconsin, where he grew up before studying civil engineering at the University of Wisconsin. In 1887, he moved to Chicago for an apprenticeship that would change the course of his career. After a brief period with architect Joseph Silsbee, Wright joined the influential firm of Adler & Sullivan, the creators behind Chicago’s renowned Auditorium Theatre.

John Waters, architect and preservation programs manager at the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, explains, “He really cut his teeth in that office. At a very young age, he became the chief draftsperson, showing he was already a prodigy.”

In 1893, after leaving Adler & Sullivan, Wright opened his own practice in Chicago, later relocating it to his Oak Park home. During this time, he was driven to develop an architectural style uniquely American. He went on to popularize the Prairie style—homes that mirrored the expansive, horizontal nature of the Midwest’s prairies. Key features of this style include low-pitched roofs, broad overhangs, and long rows of casement windows, emphasizing a strong connection to the natural landscape.

Wright’s Usonian Vision

As the country grappled with the Great Depression, Wright turned his focus to affordable housing, which led to the development of the Usonian style. Characterized by small, one-story homes, Usonian designs often include L-shaped layouts that surround a central garden terrace, creating a seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors. These homes were meant to be affordable yet beautiful, crafted with attention to detail and functionality.

Wright’s Enduring Influence in Chicagoland

Today, Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces can be explored throughout the Chicago area. From his famous homes in Oak Park to the stunning Unity Temple in Oak Park, and the Robie House in Hyde Park, his influence continues to define the city’s architectural identity. Frank Lloyd Wright's legacy in Chicago is not just about the buildings he created—it’s about a philosophy that still resonates with architects, designers, and homeowners today: the importance of blending art, nature, and functionality in ways that endure for generations.