Open Space | The Henrich House, Edward Dart, 1964

Perched atop a wooded ridge in Barrington Hills, Illinois, the Henrich House is a compelling example of architect Edward Dart’s ability to blend bold modernist form with a deep sensitivity to nature. Completed in the early 1960s, the home is defined by its use of Chicago common brick, which forms vertical piers that rhythmically segment the façade. These strong vertical elements are balanced by the home’s low-slung, flat rooflines, creating a visual tension between solidity and lightness. The setting, surrounded by dense forest and overlooking a peaceful lake amplifies the house’s sense of retreat and quiet permanence.

Inside, Dart's signature approach to spatial openness is fully realized. The home unfolds across multiple levels, linked by a central stairway and a network of interior catwalks that feel both architectural and sculptural. Materials such as slate, warm wood, and exposed brick create a palette that is both tactile and natural, while carefully positioned windows and open sightlines maintain a constant dialogue with the surrounding landscape. Dart’s handling of proportion and circulation gives the home a flowing, livable quality that feels timeless rather than tied to a particular era.

Now privately owned and lovingly maintained, the Henrich House endures as a powerful statement of mid-century design. It earned architectural accolades shortly after its completion and has since been honored for its cultural and design significance. Beyond its historical status, the house continues to resonate for its clarity of form and Dart’s distinct talent for crafting spaces that are modern, modest, and deeply connected to place.