Oak Park Jewel

When the Unity Temple was finished in 1908, it was years ahead of its time. A century later, Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural marvel is no less impressive, mesmerizing visitors with its daring design.

The squat, poured-concrete building was an innovative solution to the congregation's problems: a limited budget and a narrow lot on a noisy street corner. But these difficulties just prompted Wright to be ever more creative, crafting an architectural wonder whose placid interior prompted Pastor Rodney Johonnot to write in 1906 that the temple's "religious character is to be tested not by its resemblances to other churches, but by its possession of the qualities of reverence, dignity, and aspiration."

Unity Temple Restoration Foundation has made ample use of that dignity by bringing chamber music to the church with its Unity Temple Concert Series. It's all part of the foundation's effort to raise money for a much needed renovation of Wright's trademark building. All photos are courtesy of Unity Temple Restoration Foundation.

Address

875 Lake St., Oak Park, IL 60301

Click here for directions

Related Links

Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's work at the PBS site dedicated to his life and legacy.