Sixty miles south of Chicago, along the Kankakee River, stands one of the
only surviving horse stables designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Over the
years, as a result of multiple owners and a later restaurant conversion,
the original stable interior was completely altered and the attached
open-air breezeway was enclosed. In addition to these changes, the stable
had sat vacant for 20 years.
Severe
water damage and structural problems prompted a previous owner to apply for
a demolition permit, which was denied by the Kankakee Preservation
Commission. In danger of demolition by neglect, this locally designated
landmark was rescued by new owners who, in 2004, undertook a full
restoration. The structure was stabilized, two walls were rebuilt, and the
interior was returned to Wright's original design. Work was completed in
November 2005 and the building has been adapted into a retail gift shop.
Landmarks Illinois
Suite 1315
53 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60604
tel. 312-922-1742
fax 312-922-8112
