Frank Lloyd Wright

Definition

Frank Lloyd Wright was an influential American architect, interior designer, and writer known for his innovative designs and philosophy of organic architecture, which emphasizes harmony between human habitation and the natural world. His works exemplify the integration of buildings with their surroundings and incorporate elements of the landscape into the architectural design, making him a pivotal figure in modern architecture and an inspiration for future movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frank Lloyd Wright designed over 1,000 structures during his career, with around half of them being realized.
2. He coined the term 'organic architecture' to describe his approach to designing buildings that are in harmony with their environment.
3. Wright was known for using natural materials and incorporating open floor plans into his designs, moving away from traditional compartmentalized spaces.
4. He faced criticism for some of his unconventional ideas, yet he remained a prominent figure in architecture and influenced generations of architects.
5. Wright's Usonian houses were a series of affordable homes he designed in the 1930s that aimed to provide practical living solutions while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Review Questions

• How did Frank Lloyd Wright's philosophy of organic architecture influence his design principles?
  • Frank Lloyd Wright's philosophy of organic architecture was rooted in the belief that buildings should be designed to harmonize with their natural surroundings. This influenced his design principles by promoting open floor plans, the use of natural materials, and integrating structures with the landscape. His emphasis on unity between nature and architecture can be seen in many of his works, where he sought to create spaces that felt like a part of the environment rather than imposed upon it.
• Evaluate the significance of Fallingwater in relation to Wright's overall architectural vision.
  • Fallingwater is often regarded as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpieces and is significant because it embodies his principles of organic architecture. The design skillfully integrates the house with its natural surroundings by incorporating the waterfall into the living space, allowing occupants to experience nature in a profound way. This work not only showcases Wright's innovative approach but also highlights his belief that architecture should enhance rather than detract from the beauty of the environment.
• Analyze how Frank Lloyd Wright's contributions shaped modern architecture and its evolution beyond his lifetime.
  • Frank Lloyd Wright's contributions significantly shaped modern architecture by introducing concepts such as open floor plans, integration with nature, and the use of local materials. His work challenged traditional architectural norms and inspired later movements like mid-century modernism. As architects sought to create more functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, Wright's philosophies laid the groundwork for contemporary sustainable practices, emphasizing the importance of environmental considerations in design long after his passing.

Related terms

Prairie School: An architectural style developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhanging eaves, and a strong connection to the landscape.

Fallingwater: One of Wright's most famous designs, completed in 1935, this house is built over a waterfall in Pennsylvania and exemplifies his philosophy of organic architecture.

Taliesin: Wright's home and studio located in Wisconsin, which served as a laboratory for his architectural ideas and was where he developed many of his significant works.