Royer House

Urbana, Illinois

The Royer House and Cottage make up the Urbana Royer Historic District and the site was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The Royer House was designed and built by prominent local architect Joseph Royer in 1905. The house is a rare midwestern example of the Mission architectural style, more commonly found in the western and southwestern parts of the United States. Royer designed in a variety of period styles throughout his career, and for his own home, it is believed that he was inspired by the “California Building” at the 1904 Word's Fair in St. Louis.

The home is finished in stucco with a clay tile roof. A wrap-around terrace, covered pergola, and large lawn provide ample outdoor space close to town and the University of Illinois campus.

The house shares a site with the Royer Cottage, which Joseph Royer designed and built for his mother-in-law.