Welcome to the Johnson Wax Headquarters, an iconic piece of architectural history in Racine, Wisconsin. Designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this building is a testament to his innovative spirit and commitment to organic architecture. Construction of the headquarters began in 1936 and was completed in 1939. It was commissioned by Herbert F. Johnson Jr., the third-generation leader of the SC Johnson company, who wanted a workspace that would inspire creativity and collaboration among his employees.
Wright’s design for the Johnson Wax Headquarters is both futuristic and functional, featuring the famous ‘Great Workroom,’ a vast open office space supported by slender, tree-like columns. This space was revolutionary for its time, as it eliminated traditional office divisions, fostering a sense of community and openness.
Throughout its history, the headquarters has been at the center of innovations and developments within the SC Johnson company, known for its household cleaning products. The building itself has become a landmark, attracting architects, designers, and visitors from around the world who are eager to witness Wright’s visionary design.
Over the years, the headquarters has undergone several expansions, including the addition of the Research Tower in 1950. This tower, also designed by Wright, served as a laboratory for the company’s research and development efforts.
The influence of the Johnson Wax Headquarters extends far beyond its walls. It has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site ‘The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright.’ This building not only represents a significant achievement in architectural design but also reflects the broader industrial and cultural evolution of America in the early 20th century.
