Prairie Style
An architectural style characterized by strong horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad eaves, and an organic relationship with the landscape, developed by Frank Lloyd Wright and his contemporaries in the early 20th century to reflect the topography of the American Midwest.
Key Features
Horizontal Emphasis
The defining characteristic is a strong horizontal orientation expressed through low-pitched roofs, horizontal bands of windows, and extended terraces or balconies.
Broad, Overhanging Eaves
Deep roof overhangs extend well beyond the walls, creating dramatic shadows and providing protection from sun and weather while accentuating the horizontal lines.
Open Floor Plan
Interior spaces flow together with minimal barriers, organized around a central chimney or core and designed to promote family interaction and connection.
Clerestory Windows
Bands of small, high windows—often with decorative art glass—allow light to enter while maintaining privacy and contributing to the horizontal expression.
Integration with Landscape
Prairie homes are designed to harmonize with their surroundings through low profiles, natural materials, and terraces that extend the living space into the landscape.
Geometric Abstraction
Decorative elements feature simplified, abstract geometric patterns inspired by nature but reduced to their essential forms, reflecting Wright's organic philosophy.
Design Variations
Classic Wright Prairie
Authentic design following Frank Lloyd Wright's principles with cruciform plans, central hearths, art glass windows, and integrated furniture systems.
Prairie Box
Simplified version with a more compact, boxy form, hipped roof, and broad eaves that adapted prairie principles for middle-class urban and suburban homes.
Contemporary Prairie
Modern interpretation that maintains horizontal emphasis and connection to landscape while incorporating current materials, technology, and spatial concepts.
Usonian Prairie
Later evolution of Wright's prairie concepts into more affordable, accessible homes with simplified details, carports, and efficient use of space.
Renovation Cost Estimate
Get an estimate of what it might cost to build or renovate a prairie style. Adjust the square footage and quality level to see how costs change.
Renovation Cost Estimate
Detailed cost data is not available for this specific space type. The estimates above represent baseline costs per square foot for similar commercial spaces.
For a detailed quote specific to your project, please contact our design team or try one of our similar space types with complete cost data.
Note: These estimates are for planning purposes only. For a detailed quote specific to your project, please consult with our design team.
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