Frank L. Wright and the Architects of Steinway Hall: A Study of Collaboration

This book explores the collaborative work of young architects Frank Lloyd Wright, Robert Spencer, Dwight Perkins, and Myron Hunt in Chicago in 1897, highlighting their shared ideas and influence on architectural theory. Despite limited firsthand documentation, the study suggests that these men formed a creative circle, jointly developing ideas that were later attributed to Frank Lloyd Wright. The book also provides a listing of the architects who worked in Steinway Hall and brief biographies of Spencer, Perkins, and Hunt.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 316 pages
\n Publication date: 24 September 2021
\n Publisher: Oro Editions
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In 1897, a group of young architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright, Robert Spencer, Dwight Perkins, and Myron Hunt, embarked on a collaborative journey by sharing an office space in Chicago. This book serves as a captivating historical account of that brief period, as well as an insightful exploration of the extent to which they collaborated on their architectural designs and the development of architectural theory that would shape the field for half a century. While direct firsthand documentation of their time in the shared loft office at Steinway Hall is limited, this study conducts a side-by-side comparison of the projects they each designed during that period. Through overlapping ideas, design similarities, and an analysis of their subsequent work, it becomes evident that these men formed a creative "collaborative circle" of friends, who jointly developed ideas that were later attributed to Frank Lloyd Wright. This book delves into the realm of artistic collaboration during a time when discussions of art and architectural history were largely influenced by the notion that singular artistic geniuses were responsible for creating significant works.

Spencer, Perkins, Hunt, and Wright were integral members of the Chicago Architectural community, and Steinway Hall, designed by Dwight Perkins, became a hub for architectural activity. At the turn of the last century, the building housed as many as 50 different architects, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and collaboration. To document the presence and interactions of these architects, the book includes a comprehensive listing based on Real Estate Directories from 1897 to 1910. Additionally, brief biographies of each architect are provided, shedding light on their backgrounds and contributions to the architectural landscape.

In conclusion, this book offers a unique perspective on the collaborative spirit of young architects in 19th-century Chicago. It highlights the importance of teamwork and friendship in the creation of architectural masterpieces and challenges the notion of artistic genius as the sole driver of artistic innovation. Through meticulous research and analysis, it sheds light on the shared ideas and influences that shaped the architectural landscape of the time, providing a valuable contribution to the study of architectural history and collaboration.

\n Weight: 768g\n
Dimension: 155 x 230 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781951541507\n \n