Mid-Century Mastery
This historic Frank Lloyd Wright property was reimagined to blend modern functionality with architectural tradition in a landscape transformation that honors its heritage.
- Design Principal: Tony Lobello
- Mariani Landscape
- Awards: 2025 Landscape Illinois Excellence in Landscape Gold Award
- As seen in: Country Magazine
Our journey began with a profound respect for the historical context and architectural significance of an iconic Frank Lloyd Wright property. Our client articulated a distinct vision—they aspired to rejuvenate the natural environment across substantial acreage, modernize the outdoor living spaces for increased usability, and pay homage to Wright’s definitive Prairie style. Our mission was to redefine the space while preserving the essence of its original design ethos.
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Confronted with a landscape that had succumbed to the unbridled growth of woodlands—obliterating lawns, gardens, and structured outdoor spaces—and a topography that was unsafe and deteriorating, our team faced a twofold challenge: restoration and innovation. The property’s sloped elevations ushered in water, leading to erosion in the aftermath of rain. Invasive species like buckthorn and mulberries had overrun areas that yearned for rejuvenation.
Our remedial blueprint involved meticulously removing problematic elements, reinforcing the topography with retaining walls and steps, and integrating a network of grass pathways to facilitate ease of movement around the property. The creation of these pathways not only enhanced accessibility but also articulated clear demarcations between the rejuvenated lawn and the preserved natural woodland, offering expansive vistas that invite the outdoors in.
Keeping Wright’s vision at the forefront, the landscape design complements the property’s architectural lines. A renovated patio’s horizontal lines echo Wright’s design principles, leading visitors toward an outdoor dining area adjacent to a newly rejuvenated frog pond. Staying true to the client’s desire for a rebirth of color and life saw the extensive clearing of invasive species, replaced by swathes of tall fescue meeting Kentucky bluegrass. These carefully chosen plantings respected the prairie-style architecture while introducing a palette of textures and hues that revitalized the property’s aesthetic.
Perhaps the project’s most poignant addition was the construction of a teahouse, an unrealized dream of Wright’s original architectural plan. The formal entrance, flanked by carefully sourced boulders to be consistent with those available in 1957, is a testament to the dedication to historical accuracy and architectural reverence.
The transformation of the Frank Lloyd Wright property into a functional, vibrant living space that respects and revitalizes its original architectural vision is a hallmark of Mariani’s dedication to landscape mastery. Through innovative design, respect for architectural heritage, and a collaborative spirit, the Mariani team, led by Design Principal Tony Lobello, navigated the challenges presented by this unique project to deliver a space that is a harmonious blend of past and present—a true Mid-century Mastery.
Learn how our innovative solutions can transform your property. Contact us because we see the potential in every property to be its own landscape masterpiece.
