American System Built Homes- Model B1

A total of 13 American System-Built Homes are known to have been constructed in the United States. 2714 West Burnham is the only known example of Model B1.

The American System-Built Homes project is an early example of prefabricated housing. The “system” involved cutting the lumber and other materials in a mill or factory, to be brought to the site for assembly. This system would save material waste and a substantial fraction of the wages paid to skilled tradesmen. America’s entry into World War I halted the sale and development of these homes. Building materials were diverted to wartime needs. Also, Wright began extensive travel to Japan as to work on the Imperial Hotel project in Tokyo.