Ever wonder what affordable housing looked like in the late 19th century? You’re standing in front of a prime example: the Waller Apartments. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1895, these apartments were commissioned by Edward C. Waller. Waller was a prominent Chicago developer with a vision: to provide decent housing for those with lower incomes. He saw architecture as a force for good, a belief he shared with the young and ambitious Frank Lloyd Wright. The Waller Apartments stand as a testament to their shared vision. The apartments themselves are modest, each roughly 1,000 square feet. They were designed to be functional and affordable, a stark contrast to the opulent mansions popping up elsewhere in the city at the time. While simple in design, the buildings still bear Wright’s signature touch. Notice the use of yellow brick, the arched entryways, and the decorative terra cotta trimming. These elements hint at the architectural genius that would later flourish in Wright’s career. The Waller Apartments are more than just buildings. They represent a social ideal: that beautiful and functional housing should be accessible to all. As you look at them, you’re witnessing a piece of architectural history, a testament to the enduring power of innovative design and a commitment to social good.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to