The Prairie School style houses are characterized by hip roofs with pitches of 8/12 or less, and relatively simple rectangular massing. The eaves are deep to provide protection from the sun. The entrances may be located at the side of the house or porch while large piers, often on the porch, are also characteristic of this style. Windows may be double-hung or casement. Commonly, multiple tall windows will be installed side-by-side with a mullion between each window. Although several patterns of divided-lights are possible, a typical divided-light pattern is nine lights with the muntin bars located only four to six inches from the sash. This creates a large center light with small square lights at the corners. In the case of double hung windows, only the top sash will have divided-lights.
Buildings influenced by the Prairie School are often stucco or brick with wood or brick banding. If sided with wood, wide board and batten siding is often used in lieu of traditional clapboard. At the upper story window sills, there are frequently wood or brick banding and a change of materials above the banding.