This gallery collects just a few of the images and videos that chronicle the story of Farnsworth House, its unique architecture and its remarkable relationship with the landscape around it.
Robert Silman discusses Option C – Hydraulics
Robert Silman, of Robert Silman Associates, outlines flood mitigation Option C – Hydraulics.
This video is an excerpt from the April 28th Discussion Forum held in Chicago.
Robert Silman discusses Option B: Relocate
Robert Silman, of Robert Silman Associates, outlines flood mitigation Option B – Relocate.
This video is an excerpt from the April 28th Discussion Forum held in Chicago.
Robert Silman discusses Option A: Elevate
Robert Silman, of Robert Silman Associates, outlines flood mitigation Option A – Elevate.
This video is an excerpt from the April 28th Discussion Forum held in Chicago.
Discussion Forum – Full Video
April 2014 the Trust held a series of Discussion Forum meetings in Chicago. These meetings were attended by an invited group of experts and stakeholders to learn more about the options for flood mitigation at Farnsworth House. This video is the unedited footage of the presentation portion of the meeting.
Designed for the floodplain
Mies designed the house with the river in mind. The lower patio was intended to flood, however the increased frequency of extreme flood events places the entire structure at risk.
Photo © Carol Highsmith
A Home In Harmony With Nature
The iconic architecture of Farnsworth House provides almost uninterrupted views of the landscape outside.
Photo © Carol Highsmith
Hydraulic System Animation
Robert Silman and Associates has prepared the following animated demonstration of how the hydraulic system proposed in Option C would function.
After the Flood
When the waters recede staff can reenter the House, inspect the degree of damage and begin to clean up.
Photo © National Trust for Historic Preservation