INTERACTIVE RESOURCES

The images below show different perspectives and architectural drawings of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House, located in Chicago, Illinois. Scroll over the various design elements to learn the meaning of each word. Some elements are general architectural terms while some are specific to Frank Lloyd Wright’s design style. For more information about Robie House, read about it on our webpage or watch a virtual tour.

Balance Balance is the equal distribution ofvisual weight within a design.Balance can be achieved throughsymmetrical or asymmetricalarrangements of design elements. Contrast Contrast is the relationship between two elements that are different from one another. This juxtaposition can intensify each element’s properties and sometimes produce a more dynamic design. Color Color can create a mood within a visual design. Every color can represent something different and combinations can add to this impression further. Line A line is any 2 connected points. Lines are useful for dividing space or drawing the eye to a specific location.
Symmetry Symmetry is created when elements are arranged the same way on either side of a central axis. Symmetry helps create balance. Patterns Patterns are a repeating unit of shape or form. Patterns can be found in nature, designs, and artwork. Shape Shapes are defined by boundaries like line or color. Everything is ultimately a shape. Repetition & Rhythm Repetition is the repeated use of an element within a design, and can help unify different parts of a design. Rhythm is the repeated use of an element with defined intervals, or spaces, between them. Rhythm can create a sense of movement and establish pattern or texture.
Prairie Style Inspired by the Midwest Prairie and characterized by long horizontal lines and masses. The Prairie style was the first uniquely American style of architecture. Organic Architecture The idea that architecture should be suited to its environment and a product of its place, purpose, and time. Path of Discovery Entrances are in inconspicuouslocations so that visitors had to explore, taking in all the visual details, as they tried to figure outhow to get in. Light Screens Rows of glass casement windows and doors with touches of color and bold geometric abstractions unique to each building.
Elevation A drawing or perspective that shows the front or side of a building. Hipped Roof A roof made of 4 inclined sides. The sides of the roof are shaped like trapezoids while the ends are triangular. Casement Windows Windows that are hinged on one side and open like a door. Water Table Found between the base of a wall and the foundation. The water table protects the building from groundwater and the foundation from water running down the wall sides. Leaded Glass Decorative windows created with smaller pieces of glass connected by cames. Roman Brick Brick that is longer and thinner in dimension than common brick.
Floor Plan A drawing to scale from above showing the placement of each room. Footprint A drawing or perspective that shows the perimeter of a building from above similar to an aerial view.(See blue lines.) Cantilever A long projecting beam attached at one end like a diving board. Steel Beams Steel beams were used as part of the framework of Robie House and support the large projecting cantilever. (See magenta lines.)