Pulling inspiration from the natural beauty and simple silhouettes of the Great Plains, prairie-style architecture was made famous by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Today’s prairie-style homes merge the look of the early 20th century with the home designs of the here and now. This SoCal retreat is the epitome of modern prairie style with its low-slopping roofline, clean exterior lines and massive windows. Designed to take in 360-degrees of beautiful mountain and southern California views, the home incorporates its surroundings effortlessly.

Here, you get a glimpse of quintessential prairie-styled interiors: open floor plan, down-to-earth materials and textures and floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows. From the design elements used to the thoughtful planning of blending the indoors and out, these homes certainly take their cue from nature.

Instead of reaching for the sky, prairie design sprawls gracefully across the landscape. Using low-pitched, cantilevered roofs and wide windows, the homes lean toward a horizontal expansion rather than a vertical one.

A neutral palette, minimalist finishes and a touch of Craftsman charm are all you need to create a calming, prairie bedroom. And, of course, a gigantic window with a stunning view doesn’t hurt either. Soft yet warm wood tones mesh with not-too-stark white walls to create a welcoming retreat to begin and end the day.

Strong horizontal lines are a hallmark of prairie style to mimic the expansiveness of The Great Plains. The cantilevered, flat roof makes for a striking architectural element, and the minimalist exterior has a quieting effect. Large, sweeping windows give the home a one-with-nature feel, allowing the outdoor surroundings to be a part of interiors.

When designing the HGTV Green Home 2011, architect Mike Woodley turned to the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright for inspiration. Eco-friendly building materials, such as fiber-cement siding and synthetic limestone blocks, were combine with an updated take on Roman brick — a feature of prairie design. Another characteristic of the style? Large, overhanging eaves, which Woodley uses at the front entry to provide shade and protection from the weather.

The tried-and-true trick for creating interest in a neutral palette is to amp up the patterns and textures, and this bathroom does it to perfection. Slatted wood vanities, marble countertops and a mix of natural and tumbled tiles all combine for a peaceful getaway that also embraces a functional new trend: the wet room (a luxe watertight space that’s open, stylish and uber-functional).

Take your bedroom or living room to the next prairie level with a neutral, stacked stone fireplace that features a linear firebox. Wide no-grid windows offer unobstructed views of scenery beyond and fill the room with light.

Prairie style harkens back to a slower, simple life. This entire bunk space is encompassed in knotty wood paneling for an unpretentious vibe that’s oh-so cozy. Finish off the look with understated furnishings, pretty linens and minimal accessories.

The Great Plains stretch across the middle of America, an area known for its homespun charm and hard workers. So, no prairie home is complete without merging function with style. This bunk room is ready to sleep up to six kids — all in comfy fashion. Shiplap walls, mid-century modern furniture and slatted wood adornments layer together for an appealing, homey abode.

Honing an American classic vision is easy as, well, apple pie, and we’re taking our cues from this timeless dining room. The exposed brick wall is painted white, a trestle-inspired table is surrounded by Windsor dining chairs, and the whole grouping is centered under a sleek lighting fixture (reminiscent of industrial design).

One quick way to infuse contemporary style into a prairie home is with cool, streamlined furniture. This open and airy living space – courtesy of wall-to-wall windows and soaring ceilings – is full of low-slung, sleek-silhouetted furnishings that offer comfort without taking up an abundance of visual space.

Though not completely minimalistic, prairie style is a clean, clutter-free aesthetic that gives you plenty of room to breathe. Just like big windows are a trademark of the look, full glass front doors add to the airiness and brightness of the home. Rustic wood beams deliver a shot of warmth to the mostly white space.

The unique twist on this modern home is its prairie characteristics, such as the large overhangs, cantilevered roof and vast open floor plan. An abundance of parallel lines lengthens the home horizontally, and natural materials play a key role in concocting an unbeatable organic environment.