4) Darwin Martin House
This has to be on any list of top secret places, and is an architectural wonder by any standards. It was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright as a family home for Darwin D. Martin in 1903-1905; and is considered by many scholars to be the best example of Wright’s Prairie period. Six interlocked and interconnected buildings were constructed so as to appear as one, unified complex; and visitors are treated to hundreds of specimens of art glass created by the architect himself, including the notable, “Tree of Life” window. The gardens—subdued and simple–perfectly compliment the overall ambiance and feel. The original buildings in the complex suffered extensive damage over the years. In the early 1990’s a corporation was formed to ensure the complete renovation of the complex to its original state, however. The restoration continues today, but does not detract from the visitor’s enjoyment of the buildings.
