Walter Burley Griffin

Definition

Walter Burley Griffin was an influential American architect and urban planner, known for his association with the Prairie School movement and his innovative designs that emphasized harmony with the landscape. His work was closely aligned with Frank Lloyd Wright, as both sought to create a uniquely American style of architecture that integrated buildings with their surroundings, utilizing natural materials and horizontal lines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walter Burley Griffin won the competition to design Canberra, Australia’s capital city, which showcased his vision for urban planning based on landscape integration.
2. He collaborated closely with Frank Lloyd Wright, but later developed his own distinct approach that included unique geometric forms and a focus on sustainable design.
3. Griffin's work often featured open floor plans and large windows that connected indoor spaces with outdoor environments, a key characteristic of Prairie School architecture.
4. He also designed several notable buildings in the U.S., such as the Larkin Administration Building and numerous private residences that exemplified his architectural philosophy.
5. Griffin's legacy includes not only his architectural works but also his influence on urban planning concepts that prioritize green spaces and community-oriented designs.

Review Questions

• How did Walter Burley Griffin's approach to architecture reflect the principles of the Prairie School movement?
  • Walter Burley Griffin's approach to architecture reflected Prairie School principles through his emphasis on horizontal lines, integration with the landscape, and the use of natural materials. Like other Prairie School architects, Griffin designed structures that harmonized with their surroundings, promoting a sense of continuity between buildings and nature. His work showcased open spaces and large windows that invited natural light and connected interior environments to the outdoors, making it a quintessential example of this architectural movement.
• In what ways did Griffin’s vision for Canberra differ from traditional urban planning concepts, and how did it embody his architectural philosophy?
  • Griffin’s vision for Canberra represented a departure from traditional urban planning by focusing on integrating the city with its natural landscape rather than imposing a rigid grid system. He designed a city layout that emphasized natural features such as hills, waterways, and green spaces, reflecting his belief in organic architecture. This approach not only created a visually appealing environment but also aimed to foster a sense of community by incorporating parks and public areas into daily life, embodying his architectural philosophy of harmony with nature.
• Evaluate how Walter Burley Griffin's collaborations with Frank Lloyd Wright influenced his architectural style and legacy within American architecture.
  • Walter Burley Griffin's collaborations with Frank Lloyd Wright significantly shaped his architectural style, as both shared a commitment to organic design and harmonizing structures with their environments. While Griffin initially adopted many of Wright’s principles from the Prairie School, he eventually carved out his own identity by integrating unique geometric forms and sustainable practices into his designs. This evolution not only enhanced Griffin’s legacy as an innovator within American architecture but also contributed to broader discussions about urban planning and environmentally conscious design, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of architects.

Related terms

Prairie School: An architectural movement that emerged in the late 19th century in the Midwest, characterized by horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhanging eaves, and an emphasis on natural materials.

Frank Lloyd Wright: A prominent American architect who played a pivotal role in developing the Prairie School style, known for his philosophy of organic architecture and designs like Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum.

Organic Architecture: An architectural philosophy that promotes harmony between human habitation and the natural world through design that respects the site and utilizes natural materials.