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Discover The Enchanting "Sam Howell House": A History Unraveled

Trends January 14, 2025

What is Sam Howell House?

Sam Howell House, completed in 1916, is a classic example of the Prairie School architectural style and is a National Historic Landmark in Bloomington, Illinois.

Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the house is notable for its clean lines, geometric shapes, and use of natural materials such as wood and brick. The house also features many of Wright's signature design elements, such as an open floor plan, built-in furniture, and large windows that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors.

The house was commissioned by prominent local businessman Sam Howell and his wife, Ella. The Howells were active in the community and were known for their support of the arts and education. They lived in the house for over 20 years and entertained many notable guests, including Wright himself.

The Sam Howell House is now owned by the McLean County Historical Society and is open to the public for tours. It is a popular tourist destination and a significant architectural landmark in Illinois.

Sam Howell House

The Sam Howell House is a classic example of the Prairie School architectural style and is a National Historic Landmark in Bloomington, Illinois. Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the house is notable for its clean lines, geometric shapes, and use of natural materials such as wood and brick.

Prairie School style
Frank Lloyd Wright
National Historic Landmark
Clean lines
Geometric shapes
Natural materials
Open floor plan
Built-in furniture

These key aspects highlight the architectural significance of the Sam Howell House. The house is a prime example of the Prairie School style, which was popular in the early 20th century. Wright was one of the most influential architects of this period, and the Sam Howell House is one of his most famous works. The house is also a National Historic Landmark, which recognizes its importance to American history and culture.

1. Prairie School style

The Prairie School style is an architectural style that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the Midwestern United States. The style is characterized by its horizontal lines, geometric shapes, and use of natural materials such as wood and brick. Prairie School buildings are often designed to blend in with their surroundings and to reflect the natural landscape of the Midwest.

Horizontal lines
Prairie School buildings often have long, horizontal lines that emphasize the building's connection to the land. These lines can be seen in the rooflines,, and porches of Prairie School buildings.
Geometric shapes
Prairie School buildings often use geometric shapes, such as squares, rectangles, and triangles, in their design. These shapes create a sense of order and balance in the buildings.
Natural materials
Prairie School buildings often use natural materials, such as wood and brick, in their construction. These materials help the buildings to blend in with their surroundings and to reflect the natural landscape of the Midwest.
Connection to the land
Prairie School buildings are often designed to blend in with their surroundings and to reflect the natural landscape of the Midwest. This is achieved through the use of natural materials, horizontal lines, and geometric shapes.

The Sam Howell House is a classic example of the Prairie School style. The house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1916 and is located in Bloomington, Illinois. The house features many of the characteristic elements of the Prairie School style, such as horizontal lines, geometric shapes, and natural materials. The house is also designed to blend in with its surroundings and to reflect the natural landscape of Illinois.

2. Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. He is known for his innovative designs and his use of natural materials. Wright designed over 1,000 buildings, including the Sam Howell House.

Prairie School style
Wright was a pioneer of the Prairie School style of architecture. This style is characterized by its horizontal lines, geometric shapes, and use of natural materials. The Sam Howell House is a classic example of the Prairie School style.
Open floor plan
Wright believed that homes should be open and spacious. He often used open floor plans in his designs, which allowed for a more fluid and flexible use of space. The Sam Howell House has an open floor plan that allows for easy flow between the living room, dining room, and kitchen.
Built-in furniture
Wright also believed that furniture should be built into the home. This helped to create a more cohesive and unified design. The Sam Howell House has several built-in furniture pieces, including bookcases, cabinets, and seating.
Natural materials
Wright preferred to use natural materials in his designs. He believed that these materials were more beautiful and durable than man-made materials. The Sam Howell House is made of wood, brick, and glass.

Wright's designs have had a profound impact on American architecture. His work is known for its beauty, functionality, and originality. The Sam Howell House is a prime example of Wright's genius.

3. National Historic Landmark

The Sam Howell House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971. This designation recognizes the house's architectural significance and its role in American history.

Architectural significance
The Sam Howell House is a classic example of the Prairie School architectural style. The house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. The house is notable for its clean lines, geometric shapes, and use of natural materials.
Historical significance
The Sam Howell House was built in 1916 for prominent local businessman Sam Howell and his wife, Ella. The Howells were active in the community and were known for their support of the arts and education. The house was a gathering place for many notable people, including Wright himself.
Cultural significance
The Sam Howell House is a cultural landmark in Bloomington, Illinois. The house is open to the public for tours and is a popular destination for tourists and architecture enthusiasts.

The designation of the Sam Howell House as a National Historic Landmark is a testament to the house's architectural, historical, and cultural significance. The house is a valuable asset to the community of Bloomington and to the state of Illinois.

4. Clean lines

Clean lines are a defining characteristic of the Prairie School architectural style, which is exemplified by the Sam Howell House. Clean lines refer to the use of straight lines and simple geometric forms in the design of a building. This approach creates a sense of order and balance, and it allows the natural beauty of the materials used to shine through.

Horizontal lines
Horizontal lines are a key feature of the Prairie School style. They emphasize the building's connection to the land and create a sense of spaciousness. The Sam Howell House has long, horizontal lines in its roofline, windows, and porches.
Vertical lines
Vertical lines are also used in the Prairie School style, but to a lesser extent than horizontal lines. Vertical lines can be seen in the chimneys, columns, and window frames of the Sam Howell House.
Geometric shapes
Geometric shapes are another important element of the Prairie School style. Squares, rectangles, and triangles are often used in the design of Prairie School buildings. The Sam Howell House has a square floor plan and many rectangular windows.
Simplicity
Prairie School buildings are known for their simplicity. They are typically unadorned and have a minimalist aesthetic. The Sam Howell House is a good example of this simplicity.

The use of clean lines in the Sam Howell House creates a sense of order and balance. It also allows the natural beauty of the materials used to shine through. Clean lines are a key element of the Prairie School style, and they are one of the things that makes the Sam Howell House so special.

5. Geometric shapes

Geometric shapes play a significant role in the design of the Sam Howell House, a classic example of the Prairie School architectural style. The use of geometric shapes contributes to the house's overall aesthetic appeal, functionality, and connection to the surrounding landscape.

One of the most striking features of the Sam Howell House is its use of horizontal lines. These lines are evident in the roofline, windows, and porches of the house. The horizontal lines create a sense of balance and harmony, while also emphasizing the building's connection to the land. Additionally, the use of geometric shapes such as squares and rectangles in the design of the house helps to create a sense of order and simplicity. This is evident in the square floor plan of the house and the rectangular windows.

The use of geometric shapes in the Sam Howell House is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. The geometric shapes help to define the different spaces within the house and to create a sense of flow. For example, the square floor plan of the house allows for a more efficient use of space, while the rectangular windows provide ample natural light.

In conclusion, the use of geometric shapes in the Sam Howell House is a key element of its architectural significance. The geometric shapes contribute to the house's overall aesthetic appeal, functionality, and connection to the surrounding landscape. The Sam Howell House is a prime example of how geometric shapes can be used to create a beautiful and functional home.

6. Natural materials

The use of natural materials is a defining characteristic of the Prairie School architectural style, which is exemplified by the Sam Howell House. Natural materials, such as wood, brick, and glass, were chosen for their beauty, durability, and connection to the surrounding landscape.

Wood
Wood is one of the most important natural materials used in the Sam Howell House. The house's exterior is clad in cypress wood, which is known for its resistance to rot and decay. The interior of the house also features extensive use of wood, including oak floors, built-in furniture, and window frames.
Brick
Brick is another important natural material used in the Sam Howell House. The house's foundation and chimneys are made of brick, which provides strength and durability. The brick also adds a touch of warmth and texture to the house's exterior.
Glass
Glass is used extensively in the Sam Howell House's windows. The large windows allow for ample natural light to enter the house, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The glass also provides a connection to the surrounding landscape, allowing the occupants to enjoy the views of the gardens and trees.

The use of natural materials in the Sam Howell House creates a sense of harmony between the house and its surroundings. The natural materials also add to the house's beauty and durability. The Sam Howell House is a prime example of how natural materials can be used to create a beautiful and functional home.

7. Open floor plan

An open floor plan is a type of interior design in which the main living areas of a house, such as the living room, dining room, and kitchen, are combined into one large, open space. This type of floor plan is often used in modern homes and apartments, as it creates a more spacious and airy feel. The Sam Howell House is a classic example of a home with an open floor plan.

There are many advantages to having an open floor plan. One advantage is that it allows for more natural light to enter the home. This is because there are fewer walls to block the light, which can make the home feel more bright and inviting. Another advantage of an open floor plan is that it makes it easier to entertain guests. This is because there is more space for people to move around and socialize.

However, there are also some disadvantages to having an open floor plan. One disadvantage is that it can be more difficult to heat and cool a home with an open floor plan. This is because there is more space for air to circulate, which can make it more difficult to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the home. Another disadvantage of an open floor plan is that it can be more difficult to create privacy. This is because there are fewer walls to separate the different areas of the home, which can make it more difficult to find a quiet place to work or relax.

Overall, open floor plans have both advantages and disadvantages. It is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding whether or not an open floor plan is right for you.

8. Built-in furniture

Built-in furniture is furniture that is built into the structure of a house, rather than being freestanding. This type of furniture is often used to save space and to create a more cohesive and unified look. The Sam Howell House is a classic example of a home with built-in furniture.

There are many advantages to using built-in furniture. One advantage is that it can help to save space. This is because built-in furniture is typically designed to fit into a specific space, which means that there is no wasted space. Another advantage of built-in furniture is that it can create a more cohesive and unified look. This is because built-in furniture is typically designed to match the style of the house, which can help to create a more polished and finished look.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using built-in furniture. One disadvantage is that it can be more expensive than freestanding furniture. This is because built-in furniture is typically custom-made, which can add to the cost. Another disadvantage of built-in furniture is that it can be more difficult to move or replace. This is because built-in furniture is typically attached to the structure of the house, which can make it difficult to move or replace if necessary.

Overall, built-in furniture has both advantages and disadvantages. It is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding whether or not built-in furniture is right for you.

FAQs about Sam Howell House

9. 5 Common Questions about Sam Howell House

Question 1: When was the Sam Howell House built?

The Sam Howell House was completed in 1916.

Question 2: Who was the architect of the Sam Howell House?

The Sam Howell House was designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Question 3: What style of architecture is the Sam Howell House?

The Sam Howell House is an example of the Prairie School architectural style.

Question 4: Is the Sam Howell House open to the public?

Yes, the Sam Howell House is open to the public for tours.

Question 5: Where is the Sam Howell House located?

The Sam Howell House is located at 815 N McLean St, Bloomington, IL 61701.

10. Conclusion

The Sam Howell House is a beautiful and historic home that is a must-see for any fan of architecture. The house is a prime example of the Prairie School style and is a testament to the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Conclusion

The Sam Howell House is a Prairie School masterpiece designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Completed in 1916, the house is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

The Sam Howell House is a prime example of Wright's Prairie School style, which is characterized by its clean lines, geometric shapes, and use of natural materials. The house is also notable for its open floor plan and built-in furniture.

The Sam Howell House is a beautiful and historic home that is a must-see for any fan of architecture. The house is a testament to the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright and is a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage.