Tag Archives: Chicago

Own a bit of architectural history; The Affordable Frank Lloyd Wright


In 1895, when this block of apartments was designed, Wright was just starting out as an independent architect. He would need a couple more years to claim his fame with his better known works.

Frank Lloyd Wright designed Chicago townhouse

Frank Lloyd Wright designed Chicago townhouse

The Waller Apartments were designed as a set of five party-wall buildings, each of which was subdivided into four apartments. Wrights usual ornamental and decorative signature is missing. Clean, simple and understated lines showcase the use and functionality of the building; cheap housing.  Though the facades now appear dark and covered with grime, segments have recently been power-washed, exposing the brickwork’s original egg-yolk like colour which make it look a lot brighter.

Over the past century, the apartments have undergone long periods of neglect and abandonment. In 1968, the fourth unit burnt down, and its remains removed. In that time, two of the buildings were converted into town homes, including the two-story townhouse now for sale. After going into foreclosure last year, the three-bedroom, 1,200 square feet unit was put on the market, originally listed at $169,000, but since lowered to an unthinkable $60,000. Extensive interior restoration is required but still, after that you could be the proud owner of a real Wright for a very friendly budget.

source: Architizer Blog

Cameron’s house from Ferris Bueler’s day off for sale


On a recent trip to Chicago I did a little John Hughes tribute tour. We went to see Ferris Bueler’s high school and the house of his movie friend Cameron. Imagine my surprise to discover that the famous glass house is for sale! It’s on the market for $1.65 million.

Photograph from Gawker.com website

The house, located in the leafy suburb Highland Park, was designed by architects A. James Speyer and David Haid in 1953. It offers 5.300 square feet of living space and floor to ceiling windows throughout offering views of the ravine that give this part of Highland Park, Ravinia, its name.

Photograph from Huffingtonpost website

The house is featured in a very famous scene from the movie. It’s when Cameron has a breakdown when he returns his dad’s Ferrari and discovers that hundreds of miles have been added to the odometer. He and Ferris decide to take mileage off the odometer by putting the car in reverse on a jack. The jack however lets go when Cameron kicks the car out of frustration and sends the car crashing through the glass and into the ravine.