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 his is the first independent
house design of Walter Burley Griffin. Griffin received the commission as freelance
work while he was employed in Frank Lloyd Wright's Oak Park studio.
The house contains many elements that Griffin uses repeatedly
in his work, such as the large corner piers
that seem to hold the weight of the house. Wright was known for
his simple use of building materials, but in this house Griffin
decided to combine several materials. He chose concrete,
brick and stained boards for the exterior.
 nside, Griffin differs
greatly from Wright by breaking up the space vertically. After entering the house under the low ceiling
of the foyer, you are surprised by the sudden change to a two-story
living room. This grand space includes
a circular fireplace and leaded glass bookshelves. It is then
a half story down to the living room, which includes recessed
lighting and French doors to take you outside. The second
story contains a den with a balcony overlooking the living room.
 or the walls, Griffin
designed a brass and colored glass wall sconce.
The same sconce is found in many Wright homes including his design
for Susan Dana in Springfield Illinois. It is unclear whether
Griffin originally designed the sconce for a Wright's use or
for the Emery house.
he Emery house is
currently under going restoration, and is a private residence.
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