Prairie Style

The basis of all Prairie style architecture is the early twentieth century philosophy and work of prominent American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the acknowledged master of the style. Wright thought that Midwesterners should recognize the natural beauty of the quiet, level prairies and respect this beauty with structures of low, horizontal proportions and sheltering overhangs.

This philosophy resulted in a style of architecture that came to be used throughout the United States for a variety of buildings during its peak period of popularity between 1900 and the early 1920’s.

Roofs of Prairie style buildings are generally low pitched and hipped. Overhangs are often pronounced. Stone belt courses are sometimes used to accentuate the horizontality of a design. 

 
St. John A.M.E. Church

 
Reed House