1906-1908: Unity Temple

Unity Temple was one of Frank Lloyd Wright's favorite commissions. He was asked to design the church in 1905 after a storm destroyed the wooden structure. At the time, Frank Lloyd Wright's plan for a cubist building made of concrete was revolutionary.

Frank Lloyd Wright chose concrete because it was, in his words, "cheap," and yet could be made as dignified as traditional masonry. He hoped that the building would express the powerful simplicity of ancient temples. Wright suggested that the building be called a "temple" instead of a church.

Unity Temple was constructed between 1906 and 1908 at a cost of about $60,000. The concrete was poured in place into wooden molds. Wright's plan didn't call for expansion joints, so now the concrete is cracking. The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Unity Temple one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2009.

Worship is held at Unity Temple every Sunday by the Unitarian Universalist Congregation. The congregation cannot afford the millions of dollars it would cost to save Unity Temple.

Love Unity Temple? Tell us!

Floor Plan of Unity Temple

National Trust for Historic Preservation

Unity Temple Restoration Foundation

More About Frank Lloyd Wright

• Frank Lloyd Wright Building Index
• Frank Lloyd Wright Interior Designs
• Frank Lloyd Wright Exhibit at the Guggenheim
• Fast Facts About Frank Lloyd Wright