20 Feb brickwork mastery: robert c. spencer’s 1903 apartment building on southside chicago
exterior photographic survery of robert c. spencer’s uniquely designed apartment building located at 6109 south normal avenue, chicago, il.
robert closson spencer jr. (1864–1953) was a key figure in the prairie school of architecture in chicago. as a close friend and contemporary of frank lloyd wright, spencer played an important role in shaping the modern prairie style, which he often fused with other influences.
spencer launched his practice in chicago in 1895. by 1896, he, wright, and dwight perkins shared a large, open drafting room at steinway hall, known as “the loft.” this collaborative space is widely recognized as the birthplace of the prairie school.
spencer’s architectural designs are defined by horizontal lines, open floor plans, and stylized floral motifs.
notable works:
hauberg mansion (rock island, il): a 20-room prairie masterpiece featuring extensive tulip motifs.
edward w. mccready residence (chicago, il): designed in 1907 with partner horace powers.
redcrest / orendorff mansion (canton, il): a 1902 transitional home that blends prairie layouts with “olde england” exteriors.
john w. broughton house (river forest, il): a notable 1908 collaboration with horace powers.
in 1906, spencer founded a company to manufacture his own inventions for casement window hardware. he was also a prolific writer, publishing the first major article on frank lloyd wright’s work for architectural review in 1900. his series of articles in ladies’ home journal (1900–1901) helped introduce prairie school concepts to a national audience.
