The Charnley-Persky House was designed by Louis Sullivan but we’ve included it on this website because of Sullivan’s influence on Wright and Wright was a junior draftsman for Sullivan at the time. The house is also part of the Illinois Frank Lloyd Wright Trail.
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Completed in 1892, the house is a striking departure from the ornate Victorian style prevalent at the time. Its austere brick exterior and geometric forms reflect Sullivan’s principle of “form follows function,” while Wright’s influence is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the integration of interior and exterior spaces. The Charnley-Persky House is considered a pivotal transition between the Romanesque Revival style and the Prairie School movement, making it a landmark in the evolution of modern architecture.
Today, the house serves as the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians and is open to the public. Visitors can explore its stunning interior, admire original furnishings, and gain a deep appreciation for the genius of Sullivan and Wright. A visit to the Charnley-Persky House is a must for any architecture enthusiast or anyone interested in the birth of modern design.
There is also a Louis Sullivan designed home located near Wright’s Gilmore House in Madison.
Location
The Charnley-Persky House is located at 1365 North Astor in Chicago, Illinois. This area is also referred to as Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood.
Tours
Guided tours offer an in-depth exploration of this iconic Chicago residence, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details and innovative design elements that define the house. Expert docents bring the building’s history to life, sharing fascinating stories about Louis Sullivan, Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Charnley family.
Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended as tours often sell out since they are limited to 15 people. Be sure to check the official website for tour availability and pricing. Wednesday tours are free!
Illinois’ Frank Lloyd Wright Trail
The Charnley House is one of the 13 buildings in Illinois that make up the Illinois’ Frank Lloyd Wright Trail.
