| Title |
Sustainable Architectural Features of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian Houses |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2025.41.9.91 |
| Keywords |
Frank Lloyd Wright; Usonian Houses; SAMARA; Sustainable Architecture; Energy Efficiency and Comfort; Historic Preservation |
| Abstract |
This study aims to explore the sustainable design elements of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian houses, focusing on the SAMARA(John Christian House) as a representative case study. The objectives are to identify key sustainable features integrated into Usonian architecture and suggest strategies to improve energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality, ensuring compatibility with the building’s historical character. The research methodology includes literature review, archival analysis, and field investigations to examine spatial layouts, daylighting, ventilation, and energy systems. In particular, the analysis highlights how Wright’s design philosophy anticipated many principles of contemporary sustainable building practices, such as passive solar design and material efficiency. This contextual understanding provides a framework for evaluating the relevance of Usonian concepts in today’s sustainable design discourse. The findings demonstrate that Usonian houses incorporate significant sustainable architectural features, such as harmonious integration with nature, optimal natural lighting and ventilation, efficient heating systems, and economical modular construction methods. Proposed improvements include advanced insulation, upgraded glazing, and optimized mechanical systems. The study concludes that Wright’s Usonian houses offer valuable lessons for contemporary sustainable architecture, emphasizing their applicability in both heritage preservation and modern architectural practice. |