About Prairie Architectural Designs
The prairie architectural design came into being during the early part of the 20th century. It became more popular around 1910. The design concentrates on the roof and windows, which make the prairie design unique. The roof is low and the windows contain glass art.
Features
The prairie architectural design has a sloping roof that is set low. The eaves are long and horizontal with terraces that are placed lower. Chimneys are wide and low on the prairie architectural design. Most of the homes are made with stone, plaster, wood or concrete. Art covers the doors as well as the windows.
Interior
The interior has rooms that are open and spacious so the family has space that is not small and boxy. The furniture matches the art on the glass windows. Dining room tables are rectangular with chairs that have tall spindled backs. Built in bookcases, sideboards and benches complete the prairie architectural design.
Popularity
Back in the 1900s the prairie architectural design began to become popular. It was a design placed in many suburban areas in the Midwest. The design was intended for the worker who worked long hours in the city but could come home an affordable and comfortable home. After the Ladies Home Journal features the homes in 1901, the style grew even more by 1910.
Oak Park, Illinois
Oak Park, Illinois contains one of the largest sets of homes that have the prairie architectural design. The designer lived in the city when the homes were designed and this is why he placed them here first.