Farnsworth House – Plano Illinois

Farnsworth House was designed and constructed by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe between 1945 and 1951. It’s located in Plano Illinois in a rural setting right by the Fox River. The steel and glass house was built in the International and Modernist style. 

The floor to ceiling glass design of the house opens the interior to the beauty of its natural surroundings and becomes one with nature. The minimalist design of the interior and furnishings add to this openess. 

It was commissioned by and built for Dr. Edith Farnsworth who was the original owner of the property. She used it as a retreat away from the city. In 1972 the property was sold to Peter Palumbo; an art collector. While he owned the property he had a sculpture garden on the grounds, which includede antique phone booths (these are shown in one of the photos below). 

In December 2003 the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Landmark Illinois purchased the property and it is now operated as a house museum open to the public through tours. The Farnsworth House is listed in the National Register and was designated a National Historic Landmark. I enjoyed the tour of the Farnsworth House in Winter, but also vowed to return in Spring when the tulips and other flowers will be in bloom!

*Note – Thanks to Denny for the old black and white photos.

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