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Dana–Thomas House and its collection

Dana–Thomas House
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The Dana-Thomas House, also known as the Susan Lawrence Dana House or Dana House, is a private villa built between 1902 and 1904. It is considered a masterpiece of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, reflecting his affinity for the Prairie House style. This architectural style is known for its emphasis on horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhanging eaves, and integration with the landscape, intended to evoke the vastness of the prairie landscape.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Dana-Thomas House reflects the appreciation of both Susan Lawrence Dana and Frank Lloyd Wright for organic architecture, a philosophy of architecture which promotes harmony between human habitation and the natural world. This is achieved through design approaches that are sympathetic and well-integrated with a site, so buildings, furnishings, and surroundings become part of a unified, interrelated composition. The house also showcases their love for Japanese art and aesthetics, as depicted in Japanese prints.

Artistic Elements

Frank Lloyd Wright designed about 450 windows, skylights, and chandeliers for the Dana-Thomas House, most of which are still present on site. These elements are considered true masterpieces of glass art. The concept of 'expanding space' is repeated throughout the house, with windows arranged to give the guest awareness of the outside. This attention to detail and the integration of art and architecture make the Dana-Thomas House a unique example of Wright's work.

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ESCasa Dana-Thomas
ITDana-Thomas House
ENDana-Thomas House State Historic Site

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Art & Design Art & Design Historic house Person & Artist

#1 Art & Design in Springfield #2 Free museums in Springfield #3 History & Anthropology in Springfield #3 Historic houses in Springfield #3 Person & artist museums in Springfield #10 Art & Design in Illinois #12 Free museums in Illinois #23 History & Anthropology in Illinois #15 Historic houses in Illinois #15 Person & artist museums in Illinois

#1 Art & Design in Springfield #2 Free museums in Springfield #3 History & Anthropology in Springfield #3 Historic houses in Springfield #3 Person & artist museums in Springfield #10 Art & Design in Illinois #12 Free museums in Illinois #23 History & Anthropology in Illinois #15 Historic houses in Illinois #15 Person & artist museums in Illinois

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Dana–Thomas House
301 E Lawrence Ave
IL 62703 Springfield
Illinois

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Visitor information Dana–Thomas House

Opening hours

Monday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00
Tuesday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00
Wednesday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00
Thursday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00
Friday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00
Saturday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00
Sunday
9:30 – 11:00
13:30 – 15:00

Admission

0+Free

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Dana–Thomas House.

Location & Map

301 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Dana–Thomas House have been found.

Dana–Thomas House Reviews

Dana–Thomas House has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Dana-Thomas House in Springfield, Illinois, is a remarkable example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School architecture. Visitors consistently praise the well-preserved state of this early 20th-century home, which showcases Wright's innovative design principles and attention to detail. The house features over 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture, art glass doors, windows, and light fixtures, providing an immersive experience of the architect's vision.

    Guided tours are highly recommended, as knowledgeable docents offer insights into the house's history, architecture, and the lives of its original owners. Many reviewers appreciate the depth of information provided and the opportunity to explore multiple levels of the home.

    The meticulously maintained gardens and exterior of the property also receive praise, adding to the overall appeal of the site. Visitors often note the seamless integration of the building with its surroundings, a hallmark of Wright's design philosophy.

    While overwhelmingly positive, some reviews mention that the tour can be quite long and detailed, which may not suit all visitors, especially those with limited time or young children. Additionally, a few visitors have noted that the house may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility issues due to its historical nature.

    Despite these minor drawbacks, the Dana-Thomas House is generally regarded as an exceptional attraction for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those interested in American design. Its significance as one of the best-preserved and most complete of Wright's early Prairie houses makes it a valuable cultural asset in Springfield.

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