The S.C. Johnson Company Global Headquarters (or as everyone still calls it, S.C. Johnson Wax) is a must-see for any Frank Lloyd Wright fan. The visitor center is under the massive gold dome, left over from the World’s Fair. Johnson was a massive fan of Wright, and allowed himself to be persuaded to do some pretty wacky things.

The giant science tower is by far the most bizarre. Tall and narrow, each floor housed a different area of research. The walls are all glass tubes, letting in a massive amount of light (chemical degradation anyone?) yet not allowing anyone to see out. A narrow central staircase, and even narrower elevator and bathrooms, are also housed in the core. It’s all very futuristic, 1950s sci-fi – while also feeling wildly impractical.

The main office floor is breathtakingly awesome and one of the most important pieces of 20th century architecture. It is magnificent and really must be seen in person. It also has FLW’s touches, like three legged chairs that continually dumped employees on their heads and balconies with almost no railing.

Tours are free, but you may want to check availability before showing up. ID is required, as is a tracking lanyard. They are very strict about security and the tour is accompanied by a security guard. No photos are allowed inside. Be prepared for a lot of stairs as the old elevators can no longer be trusted.

Johnson Wax Headquarters
1525 Howe St
Racine, WI 53403-2236

Interior shots copyright free from the Library of Congress