Widely regarded as one of the five masters of the Modern Movement, Frank Lloyd Wright is undoubtedly one of the first architects to captivate the collective imagination. A lasting source of inspiration for television sets and backdrops, Wright has recently returned to the spotlight, with his architectural masterpieces serving as locations for major TV series.
In the fifth episode of The Bear’s fourth season, we see chef Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto—played by Jeremy Allen White—moving through the walls of the first house designed by the American architect in Chicago. Considered the birthplace of the Prairie Style—known for its horizontal lines that echo the vast landscapes of the American Midwest—the Oak Park house was conceived by Wright with complete creative freedom. Restored in 1974 and opened to the public as a museum, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
Wright also served as inspiration for the satirical comedy The Studio. Much of the series is set in a fictional building inspired by the Ennis House in Los Angeles, a structure that stands out in Wright’s work for its vertical emphasis. Due to its unique and unconventional character, the house has long fascinated filmmakers and has been featured in iconic productions such as Blade Runner, Mulholland Drive, Twin Peaks, The Karate Kid Part III, Rush Hour, and the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Photo Credits: Pom 49, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
