The siting on the extreme northwest portion of lot (dictated by the Fargo cottage foundations which were incorporated into Wright's design) allows for maximum exposure to the sun for the south facade, and space for ample gardens which could be enjoyed from the covered veranda extending off the dining room. The ample lot exceeds one acre, and is the largest residential lot in Oak Park. This is the last of Wright's prairie houses with a gable roof. Here, seven gables break up the typical hipped roof of Wright's prairie house; the roof is also double pitched, flaring up near the eaves to give an oriental feeling. Wright typically built his prairie homes in either stucco and wood, or (for larger budgets) brick and concrete; the Beachy house is unusual in using all four of these materials. No art glass is used in the house, also unusual for Wright, as is the picture window facing Forest avenue. Inside, the floor plan is open and the entryway is well hidden behind the northwest front pier.
The Beachy family was connected by marriage to a number of other families on Forest Avenue. Walter Beachy, Susan's son by her first marriage to John F. Pratt, married Frances Copeland, daughter of Dr. William Copeland of Wright's remodeling at 400 Forest. Harold Peter Beachy, the only son of Susan & Peter, married Harriet "Bobbie" Slingluff who lived at 228 Forest Ave, right next door. Elsie Louise Pratt, daughter of Susan Beachy by her first marriage, married John Lisle Vette in 1903 and moved into the house at 308 Forest. In the 1920's, Susan's mother, Mary Fahrney, and brother, Ezra P. Fahrney moved into the house at 414 Forest Avenue.
The Beachy's lived in the home until 1941, when Susan died. Later owners converted the house into a duplex. In 1990 a fire caused extensive damage to the house; the current owners restored it to its original configuration.
