Farnsworth House

The Farnsworth House, constructed between 1945 and 1951 as a weekend retreat for Dr. Edith Farnsworth, embodies pristine order amid spontaneous Plano, Illinois nature. Positioned near Chicago on a secluded 10-acre wooded site, the glass pavilion seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, fulfilling Mies van der Rohe's vision of harmonizing house and nature. Supported by eight I-shaped steel columns, the single-story dwelling features floor-to-ceiling windows encircling the structure, merging indoor and outdoor spaces. Raised 5 feet 3 inches above ground, it hovers atop steel columns, while steps ascend gracefully to the entrance. Despite flooding and design challenges, the Farnsworth House epitomizes minimalist purity, influencing architectural marvels like Philip Johnson's Glass House.