Tulsa’s Art Deco Architecture: A Visual Tour Through Oklahoma’s Golden Age
When you think of Art Deco architecture, your mind might wander to the gleaming skyscrapers of New York City or the glamorous hotels of Miami Beach. But nestled in the heart of Oklahoma lies one of America’s most spectacular collections of Art Deco buildings: Tulsa. This oil boom town of the 1920s transformed itself into an architectural wonderland that still captivates visitors today.
Tulsa’s Art Deco district represents more than just beautiful buildings – it’s a testament to the city’s incredible wealth during the oil boom era and the vision of architects who dared to dream in bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and soaring vertical lines. Walking through downtown Tulsa today feels like stepping into a time machine, where every corner reveals another stunning example of this iconic architectural style.
The Birth of Tulsa’s Art Deco Movement
The story of Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture begins in the 1920s, during what locals call the “Golden Age of Tulsa.” Oil had been discovered in the area, and seemingly overnight, the city became one of the wealthiest places in America. Oil barons and business magnates needed places to conduct their business, and they weren’t interested in ordinary buildings.
The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Art Deco was emerging as the hot new architectural style, having made its debut at the 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris. This style emphasized luxury, glamour, and technological progress – exactly what Tulsa’s newly wealthy residents wanted to showcase.
What makes Tulsa’s Art Deco collection particularly special is its concentration and preservation. Unlike many cities where Art Deco buildings have been demolished or significantly altered, Tulsa has maintained much of its original character. The city now boasts the second-largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the United States, trailing only behind Miami Beach.
Iconic Art Deco Buildings You Must See
The Boston Avenue United Methodist Church
Perhaps no building better represents Tulsa’s Art Deco heritage than the Boston Avenue United Methodist Church. Designed by architect Adah Robinson and completed in 1929, this stunning structure rises 280 feet into the Oklahoma sky like a Gothic cathedral reimagined for the modern age.
The church’s exterior features intricate terra cotta details, geometric patterns, and a distinctive tower that’s become synonymous with Tulsa’s skyline. Inside, visitors are treated to equally impressive Art Deco elements, including stained glass windows that incorporate geometric designs rather than traditional religious imagery. The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1999, cementing its status as one of America’s most important Art Deco structures.
The Philcade Building
Standing proudly at 511 South Boston Avenue, the Philcade Building represents the commercial side of Tulsa’s Art Deco boom. Completed in 1931, this 24-story office tower was designed by Edward Buehler Delk and showcases the vertical emphasis that defines Art Deco skyscrapers.
The building’s exterior features beautiful brickwork with terra cotta accents, while the interior boasts an absolutely stunning lobby. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to the 1930s, with original terrazzo floors, decorative metalwork, and ceiling details that have been lovingly preserved. The Philcade Building demonstrates how Art Deco architects could create functional office spaces that were also works of art.
The Tulsa Union Depot
Transportation buildings offered architects unique opportunities to showcase Art Deco design principles, and the Tulsa Union Depot is a perfect example. Built in 1931, this former railroad station combines the grandeur expected of a major transportation hub with the sleek modernism of Art Deco style.
The depot’s exterior features clean lines, geometric details, and the kind of horizontal emphasis that suggested speed and movement – perfect for a building dedicated to travel. Though passenger rail service ended decades ago, the building has been beautifully restored and now serves as an event venue, allowing visitors to experience its Art Deco splendor firsthand.
Distinctive Features of Tulsa’s Art Deco Style
What sets Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture apart from examples in other cities? Several distinctive characteristics make these buildings uniquely Tulsan while still honoring the broader Art Deco movement.
First, there’s the extensive use of terra cotta, a fired clay material that allowed architects to create intricate decorative elements. Tulsa’s Art Deco buildings feature some of the most elaborate terra cotta work in the country, with patterns inspired by everything from Native American designs to industrial machinery.
The color palette is another distinguishing feature. While many Art Deco buildings elsewhere relied on neutral tones, Tulsa’s architects weren’t afraid of color. You’ll find buildings with rich blues, warm golds, and even touches of green – colors that seem to capture the optimism and energy of the oil boom era.
Local architects also incorporated regional influences into their designs. Some buildings feature subtle nods to Native American art and culture, reflecting Oklahoma’s heritage. Others include motifs inspired by the oil industry that built the city’s wealth, creating a uniquely American interpretation of this international style.
The Perfect Walking Tour Route
The best way to experience Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture is on foot, and fortunately, most of the significant buildings are concentrated in the downtown area. Start your tour at the Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, which serves as an excellent introduction to the style and offers guided tours on certain days.
From there, head south on Boston Avenue to encounter a parade of Art Deco gems. The Mid-Continent Tower, completed in 1918 but featuring Art Deco elements added later, showcases how the style evolved over time. The nearby Philtower Building, completed in 1928, represents an earlier phase of Art Deco design with its more restrained decorative elements.
Don’t miss the smaller buildings along your route. The Fire Alarm Building, the Tulsa Club Building, and numerous smaller commercial structures all contribute to the district’s cohesive Art Deco character. Each building tells part of the larger story of Tulsa’s transformation from frontier town to sophisticated city.
Preservation Efforts and Modern Challenges
Maintaining these architectural treasures requires constant effort and significant resources. The Tulsa Foundation for Architecture has played a crucial role in preservation efforts, working to ensure that renovations respect the original Art Deco character while meeting modern building codes and accessibility requirements.
Some buildings have been converted to new uses – the old Sears building now houses loft apartments, while former office buildings have become hotels or event spaces. These adaptive reuse projects demonstrate how historic preservation can be economically viable while maintaining architectural integrity.
However, challenges remain. Economic pressures, changing downtown demographics, and the simple passage of time all threaten these buildings. Some have been lost over the years, making the preservation of remaining structures even more critical. The city has implemented historic preservation ordinances, but ongoing vigilance is required to protect this irreplaceable architectural heritage.
Photography Tips for Art Deco Architecture
Tulsa’s Art Deco buildings are incredibly photogenic, but capturing their beauty requires some planning. The best light for photographing these buildings typically occurs during the “golden hour” – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the warm light enhances the buildings’ colors and emphasizes their decorative details.
Pay attention to angles and perspectives. Art Deco buildings were designed to be impressive from street level, so don’t be afraid to get close and shoot upward to emphasize their vertical lines and soaring heights. The geometric patterns that define the style often create interesting shadows and visual rhythms that can make for compelling photographs.
Detail shots are just as important as overall building views. The terra cotta decorations, metalwork, and other ornamental elements are works of art in themselves and deserve individual attention. Many of these details are at eye level or just above, making them easily accessible to photographers.
Planning Your Visit to Tulsa’s Art Deco District
The best time to visit Tulsa for an Art Deco tour is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant for walking. The city experiences hot summers and occasionally harsh winters, so timing your visit for milder weather will make your exploration more enjoyable.
Consider timing your visit to coincide with special events. The Tulsa Foundation for Architecture occasionally offers guided tours that provide insider access to buildings and expert commentary on architectural details you might otherwise miss. The annual Tulsa Architecture Week also features special programming focused on the city’s architectural heritage.
Downtown Tulsa is very walkable, and most Art Deco buildings are within a few blocks of each other. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll want to spend time looking up at architectural details rather than watching where you’re stepping. Many buildings are still in use as offices or have been converted to other purposes, so while you can admire exteriors anytime, interior access may be limited to business hours or special tour occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Art Deco buildings are in Tulsa?
Tulsa has more than 40 significant Art Deco buildings concentrated primarily in the downtown area, making it the second-largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the United States after Miami Beach.
Can you go inside the Art Deco buildings?
Many of Tulsa’s Art Deco buildings are still in active use as offices, hotels, or event venues, so interior access varies. The Boston Avenue United Methodist Church offers regular tours, while some buildings like the Philcade have publicly accessible lobbies during business hours. Special architectural tours occasionally provide access to buildings normally closed to the public.
What’s the best time of year to visit Tulsa’s Art Deco district?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather for walking tours. These seasons provide pleasant temperatures and clear skies that are ideal for both touring and photography.
How long does it take to see all the major Art Deco buildings?
A comprehensive walking tour of Tulsa’s major Art Deco buildings can be completed in 3-4 hours, though architecture enthusiasts often prefer to spend a full day to properly appreciate the details and perhaps take interior tours where available.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes, the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture offers periodic guided tours, and several local tour companies include Art Deco architecture in their downtown Tulsa tours. Self-guided tour maps are also available from the Tulsa Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Is parking available near the Art Deco buildings?
Downtown Tulsa offers various parking options including street parking, parking meters, and several parking garages. Most Art Deco buildings are within easy walking distance of parking areas.
Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture represents more than just beautiful buildings – it’s a window into a fascinating period of American history when oil wealth transformed a frontier town into a sophisticated city. These structures continue to inspire architects, delight visitors, and serve as a reminder that great architecture can emerge anywhere when vision, resources, and timing align. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, Tulsa’s Art Deco district offers an unforgettable visual journey through one of America’s most distinctive architectural periods.