Prairie
HOUSE PLANS

What makes a house a Prairie style?

Prairie house plans are characterized by low horizontal exterior configurations, flat or low-pitched hipped roof lines, deep overhangs, and rows of tall, ribbon windows and horizontal waves of windows. The use of organic materials, both on the exterior and interior, aid in the environmental blend of the homes.

Although lacking in ornamentation, using various geometric shapes helps define nature as a meaningful partner when designing the home and creating an aesthetically pleasing interior home environment. Window placement and pattern are essential elements of this home style; they offer visual appeal and allow a plethora of natural sunlight to enter the home.

A key component of Prairie house plans, windows, were used as another organic aspect of the home's fundamental architectural design. This allowed for cross-ventilation and airflow at a time when people realized the natural health benefits of doing so.

Which architect designed Prairie-style houses?

The Prairie-style architecture was founded by the renowned American architect, designer, writer, and educator Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 20th century. Wright pioneered what came to be known as \"Prairie Style\" architecture, a famous architectural style predominant in the Midwest.

Wright\'s work spanned the breadth of architectural structures, including houses, offices, churches, schools, etc. He promoted organic architecture and created the Prairie \"organic architecture\" style with lower-profile buildings blended into the surrounding environment. These buildings were boxy, low-slung, and functional, with large windows and flowing spaces.

What is another name for prairie-style architecture?

Prairie-style architecture is also known as "Organic Architecture." It's a style of building which mimics the natural environment and pays homage to the Midwest landscape of America.

What is a modern-style prairie house?

A modern Prairie-style house is a type of architecture that celebrates the beauty of the natural world, specifically the prairies of the US Midwest and evokes a time of preindustrial simplicity. These houses are known for their low-profile exteriors composed of flat planes and horizontal lines, with wood, stone, brick, or stucco materials.

Prairie-style houses are designed for function, with open floor plans, natural woodwork, and built-in fixtures. Large windows allow for plenty of sunlight and views of the outdoors.

What is the difference between Prairie style and Craftsman?

Prairie and Craftsman-style homes share quite a few standard features. However, there are a few distinct differences between them. For example, craftsman house plans are an older, handcrafted reaction to the industrial-based lifestyle, while the Prairie style is a more modern design inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Craftsman designs are chunkier and bulkier, while the Prairie style looks sleeker and more modern. Overall, Craftsman is more rooted in the past, while Prairie is more contemporary.

What are the advantages of prairie-style houses?

Some of the advantages of prairie-style houses include the following:

• Energy efficiency: Clerestory windows (a row of windows at the top of the wall, typically on the first floor) allow light and air to enter the house, minimizing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning.
• Natural environment: Prairie-style house plans are inspired by their surrounding environment, creating a sense of harmony between the home and its surroundings.
• Aesthetics: Modern prairie house plans have a unique and attractive look, with low roof lines, rows of windows, and bands of stone, wood, or brick across the surface.