The Tulsa Foundation for Architecture (TFA) has formed a Modern Tulsa committee to increase awareness of the city's architectural treasure since the Art Deco period. The group will be holding their first soiree on May 8, 2008 and the public is invited. There is no charge to attend, but an RSVP would be appreciated. Contact Shane Hood at 918-587-2282 (work) or 918-810-7271 (cell) or email shane.hood@selserschaefer.com In official-speak Modern Tulsa is described thus: " Modern Tulsa is a volunteer endeavor focused on enhancing the appreciation of Tulsa's 20th Century Modern Design and Pop-Culture Heritage. Operating as a committee of the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture, Modern Tulsa aims to perpetuate Tulsa's Modern Heritage via promotion, preservation and education." This modern mixer will be held at the Fadem residence, an early Sixties home featured in Tulsa People last July. The Fadems also operate Retro Redo , which specializes in the restoration of mid-c
The Church of Tomorrow Oklahoma's state capitol dome was added some 88 years after the capitol was built, finally completed in 2002. But not far away is another dome that has been turning heads since 1956. It's the First Christian Church of Oklahoma City. Call it a wigwam, igloo, earthbound spaceship or dome- no matter how you describe the shape of the sanctuary, it's definitely eye-catching. The thin-shell concrete dome is massive, with seating for 1200. Connected to the dome is a four-story administrative building and a 185-seat theater. Dedicated as "The First Christian Church of Tomorrow," the architecture caught the attention of local newspapers, as well as Life magazine (Feb. 1957). Last summer I had a unique opportunity to explore these interesting buildings. The main complex was designed by R. Duane Conner in 1953. Conner was a member of the congregation and offered three different designs for the church. Credit is also attributed to his partner, Fr