A proposed 8,000-square-foot visitors center designed by Chicago's John Ronan Architects has been dealt a set back following a recent Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission decision to unanimously deny the project's efforts to impact a pair of homes located next door to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.
In the effort to build the visitors center, the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust of Oak Park seeks to move or demolish portions of one home and the entirety of another house next door to the property. The two homes are located within the Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie School of Architecture Historic District and are therefore subject to significant preservation review, according to The Chicago Tribune.
Responding to the decision, the trust writes, “American architecture was born in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Oak Park studio. This is where the story begins. It is where Unity Temple, Robie House and all of the great Prairie houses were created. A new visitor and education center should express architectural excellence.”
Ronan's visitor center aims to create a welcoming front door for the Wright complex, and will include a reception hall, ticketing and public information areas, a gift shop, and a connective outdoor plaza linking the various buildings on the site.
According to The Chicago Tribune, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Landmarks Illinois and the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy have all voiced firm opposition to the demolition-related aspects of the project and have instead advocated for a vision that both adds a new visitor center and retains the existing historic structures.
It is important to point out that the individuals and organizations in opposition weren't against creation of a visitor's center, in fact there has been overwhelming support of the concept. The opposition was about the partial demolition of one home and full demolition of a second, both of historic value and within the historic district. From what was said during the HPC meeting, there is strong belief that a new (and much needed) center can be created while preserving the two buildings in their entirety.
All 1 Comments
It is important to point out that the individuals and organizations in opposition weren't against creation of a visitor's center, in fact there has been overwhelming support of the concept. The opposition was about the partial demolition of one home and full demolition of a second, both of historic value and within the historic district. From what was said during the HPC meeting, there is strong belief that a new (and much needed) center can be created while preserving the two buildings in their entirety.
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.