The house was nearly demolished in 1957 by the University of Chicago to make way for a dormitory.
The signature cantilevered roof extends 20 feet beyond the supporting walls without visible steel beams in the original design.
Wright utilized 174 art glass windows and doors throughout the home, collectively referred to as 'light screens'.
The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963.
It is one of the eight Frank Lloyd Wright buildings collectively inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The house features a 'hidden' entrance, designed to provide privacy and a sense of discovery for guests.
The interior fireplace is constructed of Roman brick, a thin, elongated brick style favored by Wright to emphasize horizontality.
The Frederick C. Robie House is a quintessential example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie Style architecture, constructed between 1908 and 1910. The design emphasizes horizontal lines through long cantilevered roof planes and continuous bands of art glass windows to integrate the home with its landscape. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of 'The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright' listing. The building functions as a house museum managed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. Visitors can explore the preserved interior, which features original custom-designed furniture and lighting fixtures. The structure is noted for its open floor plan, which was revolutionary for domestic architecture in the early 20th century. Restoration efforts have returned the building to its 1910 appearance, addressing structural issues caused by its unique cantilevered design. It is located on the University of Chicago campus.
From the sidewalk across South Woodlawn Avenue to capture the full length of the cantilevered roofline.
Book tour tickets well in advance as entry is strictly controlled and often sells out.
Look for the original furniture pieces throughout the house; many were designed by Wright specifically for this floor plan.
Take time to observe the exterior masonry, specifically the narrow mortar joints that accentuate the horizontal lines.
Do not show up without a pre-booked reservation, as walk-in entry is rarely possible.
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Visitors must wear provided shoe covers to protect the historic floors and are prohibited from touching interior surfaces.
