Volunteer Enthusiasm Shines at Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Marie Olmos’s fascination with architecture began during her upbringing in Belgium and reignited when she moved to Chicago. Her European education exposed her to museums and historical sites, fostering her architectural interests. In Chicago, she found the city’s architecture to be particularly intriguing, leading her to volunteer at various historical buildings. Her goal was to share her passion with architects and historians, engaging a network of enthusiasts.

Olmos is now among 20 new volunteer interpreters at Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio in Oak Park, organized by the Wright Trust. These volunteers spent about two hours on a Thursday, learning essential skills for their roles while exploring the history and artistry of Wright’s creations. Wright left behind over 400 buildings across 35 states, highlighting his architectural significance. Volunteers undergo three training classes and fulfill prerequisites to qualify as interpreters and tour leaders. After her first session, Olmos expressed eagerness to acquire more knowledge.

Her decision to volunteer was inspired by her desire to explore new opportunities following her husband’s death. Returning to her longstanding passion, Olmos volunteered at an open house, setting her path as a volunteer interpreter in motion. The volunteers participated in a training session inside Wright’s home and studio on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, as part of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust’s efforts to preserve and promote Wright’s legacy.

Connor Jansen, the volunteer resources administrator at the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, explained that the certification process for trainees spans about eight weeks. Volunteer-led tours commenced in 1974, and Jansen, with four years of training experience, finds the diverse backgrounds of volunteers and guests enriching. Tour participants hail from varied professions – architects, interior designers, and Chicago history enthusiasts. These eclectic interests make for vibrant interactions within the tours.

Besides managing volunteer training in Oak Park, Jansen oversees efforts at Wright’s Frederick C. Robie House in Hyde Park. His experiences with tours have been rewarding, as he acknowledges the value each visitor and volunteer adds to the enrichment of the community’s architectural appreciation.

Sean Pittacora, a recent Oak Park resident, carries an architectural admiration from his roots in Chicago. His great-grandmother’s R. Harold Zook-designed home fueled his interest, leading to his volunteering desire. Pittacora looks forward to sharing this passion with visitors, offering insights into Oak Park’s architectural significance.