Best Of 66+ Striking Frank Lloyd Wright Sunken Living Room Voted By The Construction Association

Frank Lloyd Wright was a renowned American architect known for his innovative and iconic designs. One of his signature features was the sunken living room, which has become a staple in modern home design. Wright's sunken living rooms were not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and practical. Let's take a closer look at this unique and timeless design element.

Wright's sunken living rooms were a departure from traditional home design and represented his vision of "organic architecture." He believed in creating spaces that were in harmony with nature and the surrounding environment. The sunken living room was a way to bring the outdoors inside and create a seamless flow between the interior and exterior of the home.

The concept of a sunken living room can be traced back to ancient civilizations, but it was Wright who popularized it in modern architecture. His first sunken living room was designed for the famous Robie House in Chicago in 1909. He continued to incorporate this feature in many of his later works, including Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum.

Wright's sunken living rooms were more than just a design element, they also had practical purposes. By lowering the floor, he was able to create a sense of intimacy and privacy within a larger space. The sunken area also provided a cozy nook for conversation and relaxation, while still being connected to the rest of the room.

If you're looking to add a touch of Wright's iconic style to your home, incorporating a sunken living room is a great way to do so. Start by choosing a room that has a higher ceiling to create a dramatic effect. Then, lower the floor by a few steps and add a railing for safety. Consider using natural materials such as stone or wood for the sunken area to enhance the organic feel.

Wright's designs were heavily influenced by Japanese architecture, particularly the concept of "engawa," which refers to a transitional space between the interior and exterior of a home. The sunken living room can be seen as an adaptation of this concept, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.

Despite being almost a century old, Wright's sunken living room design remains relevant and sought after in modern homes. Its ability to connect the inside and outside, create a sense of intimacy, and add a touch of elegance and sophistication, makes it a timeless design element that will never go out of style.

Wright's Prairie style homes were designed to blend in with the natural landscape and celebrate the beauty of the prairie. The sunken living room was a perfect fit for this style, as it allowed for a seamless integration of the home with its surroundings. It also provided a way to showcase the stunning views and bring in natural light.

Wright's sunken living room was a way to bridge the gap between nature and architecture. By incorporating this feature into his designs, he was able to create a sense of harmony and balance between the two. It's a beautiful reminder that our homes should be in tune with the natural world around us.

Wright's sunken living room has left a lasting impact on modern design and continues to inspire architects and homeowners alike. It has become a symbol of his innovative and forward-thinking approach to architecture and a testament to his philosophy of "organic architecture." As we continue to push the boundaries of design, the sunken living room will always hold a special place in the world of architecture.