Robie House, Prairie style residential landmark in Hyde Park, Chicago, United States
Robie House is a two-story residential building in Hyde Park south of downtown Chicago, known for its low, elongated form. The rooms are arranged across multiple levels, with the main living areas on the first upper floor opening toward the street.
Wright designed the residence starting in 1908 following Prairie School principles, which favored flat roofs and open floor plans. The Robie family left the building in 1911, and later owners used it as a school and student dormitory before restoration work began.
The house takes its name from Frederick Robie, a businessman in the bicycle industry who wanted a home that would offer privacy while letting in light. Wright arranged each room around the central fireplace, which served as a spatial center for family life.
Visitors can view the interior during organized tours that run on several days each week in the morning and afternoon. Tickets should be booked in advance, as group sizes are limited and spaces fill quickly.
The art glass windows with geometric patterns were custom-designed for each room and filter daylight without blocking the view outside. Wright also designed most of the furniture for the house, so that each piece echoes the horizontal lines of the architecture.
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