Cover The stately Winslow House is located in the Chicago suburb of River Forest
The stately Winslow House is located in the Chicago suburb of River Forest
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Frank Lloyd Wright’s groundbreaking Winslow House, the architect’s first independent commission and a pivotal example of Prairie style, is now on the market in Illinois
In a quiet suburb of Chicago, a landmark of American architecture has hit the market. The Winslow House, Frank Lloyd Wright’s first independent commission and a pivotal work in his storied career, is now available for USD$1.985 million.
Built in 1893 for William and Edith Winslow in River Forest, Illinois, the 5,000 sq ft residence marked the beginning of Wright’s revolutionary Prairie style.
At just 26 years old, the young architect infused the home with elements that would become his signature: low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, and a harmonious blend of materials, including stone, Roman brick, and terracotta.
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The home is symmetrical and horizontally divided into a stone section
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“This home launched Wright’s career,” said Elizabeth August of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, the listing agent. “It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history.”
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Above Rich woodwork can be seen throughout the home
Above Winslow House features a golden Roman brick section and a terra cotta frieze
Rich woodwork can be seen throughout the home
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The five-bedroom house features Wright’s trademark attention to detail, from intricate woodwork to art glass windows.
A 2018 renovation modernised systems while meticulously preserving original elements, including the meticulous restoration of carved limestone using dental tools.
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Rich woodwork can be seen throughout the home
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Notable features include a central fireplace, a hidden main staircase, and an inglenook in the entry — a cosy nook that served as the heart of family gatherings.
An octagonal tower adds to the home’s unique character.
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The living room has a circular seating area just off to the side
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The Winslow House holds particular significance in Wright’s oeuvre, as it represents his transition from the more traditional designs of his mentors to his own distinctive style.
The symmetrical façade and horizontal emphasis prefigure the full realisation of the Prairie School, while the intricate detailing showcases Wright’s early mastery of integrating form and function.
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Parts of the house have been modernised
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Preservationists and architecture enthusiasts alike have long celebrated the Winslow House for its historical importance and aesthetic appeal.
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An artistic wooden screen on the staircase in place of balusters
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Its availability on the market presents a singular opportunity for a buyer to not only acquire a residence but also to become a steward of a crucial piece of America’s architectural heritage.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, the Winslow House represents more than a residence; it is a living embodiment of America’s most celebrated architect.
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Credits
Photography: Christie’s International Real Estate,
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Jennifer Choo is Regional Managing Editor of Tatler Homes, covering architecture, interior design, and art across Asia. Based in Malaysia, she oversees regional content on luxury residential design and contemporary art collections. Legally trained but choosing to pursue her passion for design, she previously led notable design publications and worked as an interior stylist and art consultant for property developers, design firms, and private clients.
