Oklahoma Modern

It appears that the unique "dome" has been removed. In an article from November 2009 in the Dallas Observer: A Roundhouse Kick to the Round House , the signature iron trellis has been removed. Jackie and I visited the round house on a recent trip to the Big D (see Letter from Dallas ). Unfortunately we weren't able to tour the home, but we did get a chance to see it up close and walk under the wisteria-covered entrance. At the time that visit was a bit of a letdown- now it's suddenly a cherished memory. Here are some more photos from that visit (click to view full size)... That huge mound of green is actually the wisteria covering the steel rods that made up the large trellis. Jackie called this the Hobbit Hole. "They stole these from the Frankoma House!"

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...

Here's your chance to see some of Tulsa's unique architectural history. This fifth annual event is open to the public and there is no charge. White gloves provided, formal dress optional. White Glove Open House Tulsa Foundation for Architecture Archives 321 S. Boston Kennedy Building, lower level Tuesday, January 19 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm The Tulsa Foundation for Architecture maintains a huge collection of original drawings of some of our most historic buildings. With over 35,000 articles in the collection, the TFA archive is an impressive resource maintaining a link to many aspects of our city's past. And all too often, this may be all that remains of an important piece of Tulsa's skyline.