Roloson Houses

Gazing upon the Roloson Houses, can you picture the bustle of 19th-century Chicago swirling around them? These remarkable row houses, nestled on South Calumet Avenue, whisper tales of a young Frank Lloyd Wright and his ambitious client, Robert W. Roloson. The Roloson Houses, designed in 1894, stand as a testament to Wright’s early architectural prowess. They predate his Prairie School period, showcasing a blend of Queen Anne and Tudor Revival influences. Robert W. Roloson, a prosperous grain merchant, commissioned these four homes as an investment. This commission was one of Wright’s earliest after leaving the firm of Adler & Sullivan. The design bears the mark of these formative years, hinting at the genius that would later blossom. The Roloson Houses originally boasted steeply pitched gables, rectangular bands of windows, and ornate Sullivanesque terra-cotta ornamentation between the second and third floors. Sadly, a devastating fire in 1981 ravaged the interiors. Subsequent renovations, while preserving the historic facades, have resulted in modernized interiors. Yet, standing here, we can still appreciate the exterior’s visual harmony. The Rule of Thirds, a fundamental principle of artistic composition, is subtly woven into the design. Look closely, and you’ll find nested patterns in sets of three throughout the facade. This design choice creates a sense of balance and elegance. While the Roloson Houses may not be as iconic as Wright’s later works, they offer a glimpse into the evolution of his unique architectural style. They serve as a reminder that even a young, relatively unknown architect can leave an enduring mark on a city’s landscape.