Farnsworth House 14520 River Rd Plano Il 60545

Farnsworth House: A Modernist Masterpiece

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Plano, Illinois, the Farnsworth House stands as a testament to the genius of renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Completed in 1951, this iconic residence epitomizes the principles of modernism, showcasing a seamless integration of architecture and nature. ### A Vision of Transparency and Minimalism The Farnsworth House embodies Mies van der Rohe's vision of transparency and minimalism. Its defining feature is its seemingly floating glass pavilion, supported by eight slender steel columns. This design creates an uninterrupted connection between the interior and exterior spaces, allowing the surrounding landscape to become an integral part of the living experience. The house's minimalist aesthetic is evident in its simple geometric forms, clean lines, and carefully selected materials. Mies van der Rohe employed large expanses of glass, steel, and travertine marble to achieve a sense of lightness and openness. The interior is devoid of unnecessary ornamentation, focusing instead on the interplay of light, space, and proportion. ### A Dialogue with Nature The Farnsworth House's relationship with its natural surroundings is a key aspect of its design. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Fox River, the house appears to float amidst the trees, offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside. Mies van der Rohe carefully considered the orientation of the house to maximize natural light and minimize solar heat gain. The use of glass allows the occupants to experience the changing seasons and the beauty of the natural world from every room. ### A Legacy of Controversy and Preservation Despite its architectural significance, the Farnsworth House has not been without its share of controversy. Shortly after its completion, the house's owner, Dr. Edith Farnsworth, filed a lawsuit against Mies van der Rohe, claiming that the house was poorly designed and uninhabitable. The lawsuit and subsequent legal battles brought unwanted attention to the house, overshadowing its architectural merits. However, the Farnsworth House has since undergone extensive restoration and is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Farnsworth House is open to the public for tours, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the beauty and significance of this modernist masterpiece. It serves as a reminder of Mies van der Rohe's groundbreaking vision and his enduring influence on architecture. ### Visiting the Farnsworth House If you're interested in visiting the Farnsworth House, here are some important details to keep in mind: *

Address:

14520 River Road, Plano, IL 60545 *

Hours:

The house is open for tours from April to October, Wednesday through Sunday. Guided tours are available on the hour, starting at 10 am and ending at 4 pm. *

Admission:

Admission fees vary depending on the type of tour. Advance reservations are recommended. *

Accessibility:

The Farnsworth House is not wheelchair accessible. However, visitors with disabilities can request a special tour. A visit to the Farnsworth House is a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a seminal work of modern architecture. Its simple yet elegant design continues to inspire architects and design enthusiasts worldwide.