Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio, Oak Park

The house itself was beautiful. The view from every window had interest and perspective. I have a HUGE issue with our tour guide, Donna, who was condescending, glib, scripted and occasionally downright mean. We were only 5 minutes into the tour when she reprimanded a woman in our group for "leaving the group" when the woman took three steps back to look in the foyer from the living room, both of which were wide-open connected spaces. Reprimanded. As you would a 5 year old. She continued this same attitude throughout the tour. We were not allowed to remain in a room for even 30 seconds after her halting presentation because "there is a group right behind us"; tours were spaced 40 minutes apart. We had a variety of people in our group from many different countries, ages and demographics and by the end of the tour, we were all feeling chastised and disappointed in our guide's attitude. She treated us as nuisances and, as another commenter mentioned, seemed to be just WAITING for someone to step out of line. Toward the end of the tour, the same woman from the foyer asked the guide a question, to which the guide responded, "Well I am going to GET to that if you would just give me a minute!" in a put-off and rude tone. While I understand the no-touching, no breathing on it rule while touring the house, I do not appreciate paying $15/person to be treated with disdain. I have a teenage daughter and can get that attitude at home for free.

After visiting several times, my respect for Mr. Wright as an artist and visionary has only increased. In the Home & Studio, one can see the seeds of many ideas he employed in the ensuing years. What incredible spaces!