Visiting the Robie House

Question

Planning a trip to the Robie House in June. Do you recommend the interior? The interior with audio exterior or the in- depth interior/exterior?

Answer

The Robie House is one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous and important architectural masterpieces, and it offers a fascinating look into his Prairie Style. Depending on your interests and how much time you have, there are different types of tours you can choose from, each offering a unique experience. Here are the main options to consider:

1. Interior with Audio Tour

If you're primarily interested in the interior design and Wright’s architectural details, the audio tour of the interior is a great option. The house's interior is a stunning example of Wright's distinctive approach to space, light, and furniture design. The audio guide provides a detailed explanation of the architectural features, furniture, and the vision behind the house. This tour is more focused on the interior of the house and gives you a comprehensive understanding of the design philosophy behind each room.

Focus: Interior design, furniture, and architectural details.
Duration: Typically around 1 hour, depending on your pace.
Recommended for: Those who are especially interested in the interior design and Wright’s architectural innovations.

2. Exterior with Audio Tour

If you're interested in the exterior of the house and how it fits into its surroundings, you can choose the exterior audio tour. This tour gives you a look at the house’s striking facade, its integration with the landscape, and its place within the larger context of Wright's Prairie Style. The audio tour will provide context about the design principles that shaped the exterior and the way Wright carefully considered the relationship between the building and the natural environment.

Focus: Exterior design, landscape integration, and architectural context.
Duration: Typically around 45 minutes to an hour.
Recommended for: Those who are interested in how the building fits into the landscape and its architectural form from the outside.

3. In-Depth Interior and Exterior Tour

The in-depth tour combines both the interior and exterior experience, offering a more holistic view of the Robie House. This tour includes access to both the interior and exterior of the house, with a detailed exploration of the history, architectural innovations, and the significance of each space. The guide (or audio tour) will walk you through the house’s construction, Wright’s design choices, and the cultural context in which the house was built. If you’re someone who wants to understand the full significance of the house from all angles, this is the best choice. It’s also a longer experience, so you’ll get a more thorough understanding of both the architectural and historical aspects of the house.

Focus: Comprehensive view of both the interior and exterior, architectural history, and design philosophy.
Duration: Typically 1.5 to 2 hours.
Recommended for: Those who want a deeper understanding of the house’s architectural significance and Wright’s work.

Conclusion: If you’re short on time or primarily interested in one aspect, either the interior or exterior audio tour will give you a great experience. However, if you want to experience the full range of Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision and really dive into the history and design of the Robie House, the in-depth tour is highly recommended. It offers the most complete picture of the house’s architecture, both inside and out. Enjoy your visit to this iconic piece of American architecture!