Harold C. Bradley House
A late Louis Sullivan masterpiece of Prairie School architecture, notable for its early use of structural I-beams.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Harold C. Bradley House
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A late Louis Sullivan masterpiece of Prairie School architecture, notable for its early use of structural I-beams. 
"A must-see when driving around the historic area of Madison. "
📸 Exterior Views
The house is best viewed from the outside; access inside is limited.
🚗 Scenic Drive
Incorporate a drive around Madison's historic district to see the house.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prairie School Masterpiece
A late Louis Sullivan design, showcasing innovative use of structural I-beams in residential architecture.
Historic Madison Drive
Located in a beautiful historic district, perfect for a scenic drive and architectural appreciation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Admire Prairie School Architecture
+1Location and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Exterior Views
The house is best viewed from the outside; access inside is limited. +1
🚗 Scenic Drive
Incorporate a drive around Madison's historic district to see the house.
💡 Architectural Significance
Appreciate its status as an early use of structural I-beams in a home.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Exterior Views
The house is best viewed from the outside; access inside is limited. +1
🚗 Scenic Drive
Incorporate a drive around Madison's historic district to see the house.
💡 Architectural Significance
Appreciate its status as an early use of structural I-beams in a home.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Harold C. Bradley House as a significant example of Prairie School architecture and a beautiful home. While many appreciate its historical importance and unique design, the primary drawback is the inability to tour the interior, as it's a private residence.
"Nice early work of frank Lloyd Wright, hope to see inside some day"
Wisco Simple
"Louis Sullivan designed the Bradley House, not Frank Lloyd Wright. This is the first use of structural I beams in a residence."
Bill Barker
"A must see when driving around the historic area of Madison"
Kyle Russell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Harold C. Bradley House is located in Madison, Wisconsin. It's best accessed by car, as it's situated within a historic residential area. Parking is typically available on the street.
While public transportation might get you to the general vicinity of Madison, it's unlikely to drop you directly at the house. A car or ride-sharing service is recommended for easy access to this residential area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, interior tours of the Harold C. Bradley House are not available to the public as it is a private residence (currently occupied by Sigma Phi fraternity).
No, there is no admission fee to see the exterior of the Harold C. Bradley House. It is a residential property, and viewing is from the street.
As it's a private residence, there are no official visiting hours. You can view the exterior at any time, but it's best to do so during daylight hours for optimal viewing and photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The best way to photograph the Harold C. Bradley House is from the street, capturing its distinctive Prairie School design. Ensure you have good lighting by visiting during the day.
Most visitors find that a frontal view showcases the house's symmetry and architectural details effectively. Experiment with slightly different street-level perspectives to capture its grandeur.
🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History
The Harold C. Bradley House was designed by Louis Sullivan, with significant collaboration from George Grant Elmslie.
It is a prime example of the Prairie School architectural style, known for its horizontal lines and integration with the landscape.
It's notable for being one of Louis Sullivan's later works and an early residential use of structural I-beams. It was also one of the first local landmarks designated in Madison.
While Louis Sullivan was Frank Lloyd Wright's mentor, he designed the Bradley House himself. Some reviews mistakenly attribute it to Wright.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
+1🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Significance of the Harold C. Bradley House
+2What makes the Bradley House particularly groundbreaking is its early adoption of structural I-beams in a residential setting. This innovative use of materials allowed for more open interior spaces and a distinct architectural expression. The design is also heavily influenced by Sullivan's collaborator, George Grant Elmslie, who played a crucial role in its execution and is sometimes credited with a significant portion of the design work.
+1Recognized for its historical and architectural importance, the Harold C. Bradley House was among the first buildings in Madison to be designated as a local landmark in 1971. Today, it serves as the fraternity house for Sigma Phi, which has undertaken restoration efforts to preserve its unique character. While interior access is limited, its exterior remains a captivating sight for architecture enthusiasts and a key piece of Madison's built heritage.
Experiencing the Harold C. Bradley House as a Visitor
Many visitors find it to be a highlight when driving through the historic areas of Madison. The house's distinctive design, characterized by its low-slung profile and horizontal emphasis, makes it stand out. While you can't typically go inside, the opportunity to admire its facade and appreciate the craftsmanship from the street is a rewarding experience for anyone interested in architecture.
For the best photographic opportunities, plan your visit during daylight hours. The natural light will best showcase the details of the Prairie School design. It's a perfect stop for a quick photo and a moment of architectural appreciation during a tour of Madison's historic districts.
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