It's no wonder so many cool modern buildings are made from concrete.What else is so strong and versatile yet relatively cheap? With the invention of pre-stressed concrete we saw a boom in unique forms that would have never been possible using standard techniques. Even the most utilitarian of structure could now have an exotic and lively look. These mod concrete awnings over the pool at Henthorne Recreation Center are a perfect example. They are reminiscent of the park shelters and roadside awnings from the Sixties, especially some picnic sheleters we saw in Enid . But these are larger than most with a span of more than 60 feet. I especially like the subtle detail at each corner. Next up is a simple example I noticed while on a recent business trip to Las Vegas. It's a stairwell I spotted behind the Las Vegas Convention Center. It reminded me of another modern stairway we looked at last December. The simple form of the roof over the circular hole gives an otherwise m
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