PrairieMod

Could This Be A "Fair" House?

PrairieMod reader Debbie B. sends a link to a house for sale in Riverside, IL that is alleged to have been part of the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago in 1933 (could it possibly be one of these houses?) We have not been able to find out much more about it, but maybe PrairieMod readers might know more. Can anyone substantiate this claim? See the listing and more photos here.

Image via estately.com

Some Solberg Background Information

Cheryl G. was kind enough to provide some background info on architect Vern Lars Solberg, via his son Tait Solberg. Read what she found out after the jump...

More Solberg

Looks like when it rains it pours. Greg R. sent some more Vern Lars Solberg links that he thought PrairieMod readers would enjoy. the first is to DeKalb, Illinois' Pizza Villa, which Solberg apparently designed. The second is to an PDF about Windrift Prairie Nursery (once located near the town of Oregon, IL) which Solberg designed a limestone house. Read it here. Let us know if you have more info on Vern's buildings!

Image via Google maps

Another Solberg Surfaces

We recently posted on a sweet little 1960s Usonian for sale designed in Polo, IL by the enigmatic architect Vern Lars Solberg. Now, Scott T. has stumbled upon another home with Wrightian overtones by Solberg, this time for sale in McHenry, IL. Anyone know more about this architect and if he is the product of Taliesin? Read more about it here and see the listing with more photos here.

Image via ditlovehouse.com

More Info On Faux Fallingwater

PrairieMod reader Dave E. was able to find more info on the Fallingwater-ish house in Lake Geneva, WI we recently posted on. Dave says: "The architectural firm involved was Tilton & Lewis Assoc. out of Chicago. Appears to have been built around 1994 "for George Coleman". Can't find anything else about Coleman. House is over 9,000 sq. ft. inside with 4,000 sq ft of decking. It was roofed with soil and 1,350 plantings over a waterproof membrane. Not to say that the "green" roof still exists, but it does appear to have greenery on it's roof in the photo posted on line."

Thanks Dave! More here.

Image via gazettextra.com

Lake Geneva's Fallingwater

Link G. sent-in a question about a Fallingwater doppelgänger in Lake Geneva, WI. Anyone know more about this expensive looking homage? Let us know!

Image via gazettextra.com

More "Wright" Platform

Many readers send word that they enjoyed the images I posted of The Island Woolen Company Dam Observation Deck (once located in Baraboo, WI and allegedly designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.) Author and architect, Randolph C. Henning was kind enough to send me a couple more rare photo postcard images of this mysterious structure to share with PrairieMod readers.

So readers: is this destined to remain a 'Wright" design (with quote marks intended) or does anyone think there might be a way to solve the mystery?

Image credits: The Collection of Randolph C. Henning 

Ask PrairieMod: David Voorhees House

Tim M. contacted us recently looking for some help tracking down plans or photos of architect Arthur Carrara's David Voorhees House. It was built in Colden, NY (south of Buffalo) but was destroyed by fire many years ago. So PrairieMod readers, can anyone help Tim out by sending in any information on the Voorhees House? We'll post what's submitted so that everyone can enjoy!

Image via interiordesign.net

It's Nice, But Is It Wright?

The Hyde Park/Kenwood neighborhood of Chicago has a handful of works by Frank Lloyd Wright, but is this early Queen Anne style home currently on the market one of his? The listing makes that audacious claim, but 4830 S. Kenwood Ave. is not listed on any official list as being "Wright."

PrairieMod readers are excellent in helping to solve these types of mysteries—anyone know? See the listing and more photos here.

Image via estately.com

Where Did All The Orpheum Posters Go?

Speaking of Iannelli, as I'm in the process of working on the upcoming monograph on the life and work of Alfonso Iannelli, I was struck by the shear number of posters designed and hand painted by the then Los Angeles-based Iannelli Studios for the Orpheum Theater (now known as the Palace Theater).

It begged the question for me: Where did they all go? I know some have appeared in auctions and sales over the years, but it's a small percentage of the speculated 80-100 that were thought to have been created. Several were exhibited at Oklahoma University while Iannelli was still alive, but I wonder where they all went after he passed and the collection was bought and sold-off in the 1980s/1990s.

Anyone know? If you own an original hand painted poster from the turn-of-the-last-century (not the 1967 silkscreen repros) please let me know!

Image via PrairieMod

Seeking Olinka

Some time ago we posted on the mystery of the lost Olinka Hrdy murals that were executed for the Riverside Music Studio in Tulsa, OK. The artist of the colorfully abstract murals was Olinka Hrdy, who was working for architect Bruce Goff at the time.

Hrdy also had connections to Alfonso Iannelli—working for, corresponding with, and having him write her recommendations for future jobs.

I'm wondering if an PrairieMod readers out there have any more information or work examples related to this fascinating and little-known Modernist artist. If so--send me an email and I'll be happy to share with everyone!

Image via thislandpress.com

Another Schindler Mystery

With all the recent excitement surrounding the discovery of the little cottage in Wilmette, IL designed by Rudolph Schindler while working for Frank Lloyd Wright, it's stirred up interest in trying to locate other buildings in the Chicagoland area that may bear Schindler's fingerprints.

One such mystery is a renovation that Schindler apparently did of a house in Maywood, IL for a J.B. Lee in 1916 while working for another Chicago firm: Ottenheimer, Stern, and Reichert. Problem is, no one knows the address or if any part of it still stands. Anyone have any clues?

Image via trianglemodernisthouses.com

The Library/Larkin Connection?

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right? If so, based on a couple of photos sent by Marty Hackl, perhaps Frank Lloyd Wright thought highly enough of the 1878 Peabody Library at John Hopkins University to emulated it in the main atrium of his 1904 Larkin Administration Building that once stood in Buffalo, NY. Any PrairieMod readers know if there's a connection?

Images courtesy of Marty Hackl

Put A Chair On It

We love Eames as much as the next mid-century maniac, but the proliferation of Eames-chairs-as-graphic-treatment has us wondering if these iconic pieces are one potholder away from becoming a Portlandia spoof. Thoughts?

Images via the web

Cole House Photos And Questions

Wright Chat user "DRN" was kind enough to share some fantastic period photos of the Bruce Goff-designed Frank Cole House (1939) originally taken by Fons Iannelli (Alfonso Iannelli's son). These stunningly rich images showcase this Usonian-esque home, which was built in Park Ridge, IL.

PrairieMod readers may remember a post that stirred-up some confusion about whether or not this home still stood when it was advertised for sale in 2010 as a "Bruce Goff-designed" home.

However, the recently posted period photos may reveal that the original house was not actually torn down to make way for a new one—but instead extensively renovated beyond recognition. To shed a little more light on this mystery, I came across some recent exterior and interior photos to see if it can be determined if this home was actually lost or if perhaps enough of its bones remain to one day restore it back to its "Goffian" state.

If anyone know more on the history of this home and if it has been lost or remodeled beyond recognition, please let us know. To see all of the photos follow the link.

Image credit: DRN (top)/tours.vht.com (bottom)

 

The Wright Window?

Artdaily.org reports on an art glass window from a residence in upstate New York attributed to Frank Lloyd Wright and being sold in the December 10-11, 2010 auction at Dan Morphy Auctions. Thing is—it looks like it could be related to the D.D. Martin House windows (of which there are a lot) but something about it doesn't seem quite Wright. Anyone have any insight on whether this is really "Wright" and which house it belongs to? Read more here.

Image via Art daily.org

Question: Mod Architect in Traverse City, MI?

PrairieMod reader Lyn P. asks:

Any thoughts on how I could find a mod architect in Traverse City, MI? I am contemplating some remodeling, but need professional help.

If you have helpful info or tips for Lyn, please leave a comment to this post.

Red Square Toy Company

No, it's not Hasbro's Cold War-era subsidiary. The Red Square Toy Company was founded by John Lloyd Wright (son of Frank) and produced many building-related toys, including Lincoln Logs. Does anyone out there have an image of what the company logo might have looked like or other images of original packaging? Send it along and we'll share.

Name This Architect

PrairieMod reader, Eric S. sent me a link to a McHenry, IL home for sale that bears several very cool Mod features. Anyone know who the architect is? Follow the link to see more.

Image via ditlove.com

Desperately Seeking Schweikher

There is not much info to be had about architect, Paul Schweikher. Having worked in the Chicagoland area before moving onto Pennsylvania and then Arizona, Schweikher was responsible for several amazingly beautiful progressive works of architecture–including his own home and studio in Schaumburg, IL. However, what's frustrating is a lack of information about his work, where they are located and how many buildings are left. Can any of our fantastic readers provide info or (better yet) photos?

Image courtesy of www.vinci-hamp.com

Wright In Italy?

While Frank Lloyd Wright did stay in an Italian Tuscan villa, working on the Wasmuth Portfolio (and spending time with Mamah), there is no evidence that he designed and built anything while over there. So this recent claim of being able to rent a Wright-designed Tuscan villa seems dubious. Does anyone know something we don't about this? See more here.

Image via Tuscany Rent Direct.com

Frank And Ernest

As fellow "Oak Parkers," did Frank Lloyd Wright and Ernest Hemingway ever cross paths? It turns out they did. Read about it here.

Images via Wikipedia

PrairieMod Help Line: Stenciling Examples

PrairieMod reader, Lyn P. sent a request to the PrairieMod Help Line asking for some examples of how Frank Lloyd Wright stencil designs have been used. Read more after the jump...

PrairieMod Help Line: The Wright Flatware

From time to time, people write us with design, product or decorating questions they are looking to PrairieMod readers for help answering. I thought I'd start a new column called "PrairieMod Help Line" to call attention to these questions. I'm going to start it off with a request of my own. Read about it after the jump...

Question: Who Was the Architect of Our House?

We recently received a comment that contains a great question for the PrairieMod Community to help answer.

Our house is part of a development of about 100 homes at the base of the Catalina Mountains in northeast Tucson. While our house was built in 1983, the development first broke ground in the early 1960s. Financial ruin prevented the entire development from being built, until the early 1980s, when a new developer intervened. He chose to complete construction of the remaining homes based on the original architect's plans from the 1960's.

I know this information based solely on "oral history" -- speaking with my neighbors who are original owners from fifty years ago. I'm very interested in learning the history of this little development in the desert; the name of the architect, perhaps even locating original blueprints, etc. But I am stymied over where to begin my investigation!

Are there any suggestions for me? My husband and I hope to live in our little "Mid-Century-Wanna-Be" through our retirement years and look forward to the adventure of restoring it to the intent of the original architect. Any suggestions you have would be a great help.

Thank you - Joan + Christopher from Tucson, Arizona

If you have any leads or tips for them, leave a comment.

Question: How Do You Save a Sullivan Building in Iowa?

Michelle from Iowa wrote in asking for help.

I live in Cedar Rapids, IA, which was recently devastated by flooding. The city is in the process of deciding how to “flood proof” for the future. The proposed flood mitigation plan is a system of Flood Walls and Levys, which in its current form would require the demolition of many historic buildings. One of these would be the Peoples Bank Building built in 1911 and designed by Louis Sullivan. We are against the flood walls for many reasons, but think the demolition of these buildings would be devastating to our town. We are looking for a group or foundation who can advice of how we can save this building and many others. Please let me know if you can point me in the right direction, or have any advice on who I can contact. Thank You!

If you have any info, leave a comment.

Image copyright Einar Einarsson Kvaran

Question: Info on Architect Herb Fritz?

Tim from Wisconsin emailed us this question below. Can anyone help?

I recently acquired a 1960 Herb Fritz house in rural Wisconsin and am trying to find out more info about Herb Fritz and his other projects. Thanks, and keep up the great work! - Tim

If you have any info, leave a comment.

Image from Eric Saed's Flickr Photostream

Question: Prairie-Style Curtains?

One of our readers, Sean from Illinois, needs your help!

My wife and I are putting up some new curtains in a prairie style home and are having trouble finding some nice prairie inspired curtain rods. I was wondering if you or your readers knew of any? Thanks...Sean.

If you have any leads or tips for them, leave a comment.

Question: Painting Tips for a Prairie Inspired 1950's Ranch?

Linda wrote in with this question:

I own a 1957 ranch, which I believe is inspired by the Prairie Style. The brick is orange-rust in color & the accents are a creamy white. I'm in desperate need of some paint colors for the trim & window sashes. I want to emphasize the Prairie elements & move it from looking like the other ranches in my neighborhood. I am open to any ideas!!

Leave a comment here with any tips.

Question: Stow Davis Mid-Century Modern Chairs?

Tanya and Jim, need help! If you have any leads or tips for them, leave a comment.

We just bought two very cool mid-century chairs and I'm trying to find out more about them. They were made by Stow Davis Furniture of Grand Rapids, MI. One of them still has the original tag. They were part of order number 54823, style no. 113, finish no. 51. We'd love any help folks can give about their origin.

Question: Prairie Garden with Native Plantings?

Jaime from Minnesota wrote us asking about the best way to use native plantings for his modern prairie home. Let us know if you have any resources or tips for him by leaving a comment.

We own a very contemporary home that takes its cues from the Prairie vernacular. One of the last finishing touches is the garden and we have struggled with this. I had hoped your team or your readers could help point us to some resources for native plantings to consider as we finalize this very important detail to our home. Thank you PrairieMod!

Image copyright Mark Baldwin

RE: Question: Modern Prairie-Inspired Patios?

Seriously? No one has any insight into Sean's question about Prairie-Inspired Patios for his modern prairie designed home? You guys always have so many great leads and ideas that you email to us, I'd think someone could point Sean in the right direction.

Okay, enough chastising on my part (sorry to be a bit of a meanie). I'll help get things started by leaving my personal suggestions in the comment section for our proposed question. If I'm way off base, let us know. If you have a better idea, please share it. Thank you!

Question: Modern Prairie-Inspired Patios?

PrairieMod constantly receives tons of questions (some we can answer, some we cannot) from you guys. So, we'd like to be able to put forward those requests to the PrairieMod Community. Send us your questions and we'll share with everyone else to uncover some great answers.

Kicking it off for us is a question from Sean...

My wife and I are working on designing a external stair, patio, and retaining wall for our modern prairie designed home (limited yard size). Needless to say I'm having trouble finding some good pics/examples of some prairie inspired patio designs. I was wondering if you might be able to offer some links or insights into where I might look?

If you have resources or suggestions to share with Sean, leave a comment in this post.