Tulsa, Oklahoma is renowned for its rich architectural heritage that blends historic charm with modern design.
The city’s skyline features a diverse array of buildings that showcase various architectural styles, including Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, and Contemporary designs.
What makes Tulsa’s architecture truly unique is its fusion of cultural influences and innovative designs.
Visitors and residents alike can appreciate the meticulously crafted details and the artistic vision behind these structures.
This article highlights the 10 best architectural buildings in Tulsa, offering a glimpse into the city’s remarkable architectural landscape.
1. BOK Center
The BOK Center, also known as the Bank of Oklahoma Center, is a significant landmark in Tulsa.
Designed by Cesar Pelli, this multi-purpose arena opened in 2008.
The venue seats over 19,000 people and hosts a variety of events, including concerts, sports, and large gatherings.
With its striking architectural design and flexible layout, the BOK Center has become one of the key attractions in downtown Tulsa.
2. Philbrook Museum of Art
The Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is housed in a stunning 1920s villa known as Villa Philbrook.
The building was originally the home of Oklahoma oil pioneer Waite Phillips and his wife, Genevieve.
This museum opened to the public in 1939 and features nine collections of art from around the world.
The Villa’s architecture highlights grand design elements such as sweeping lines and ornate columns.
Outside, the museum’s 25 acres of Tuscany-inspired gardens provide a serene setting for visitors. This blend of art, history, and nature makes the Philbrook Museum a unique architectural jewel in Tulsa.
3. Tulsa Union Depot
The Tulsa Union Depot, also known as Tulsa Union Station, was built in 1931. It served as the central railway station for three railroads: Frisco, Santa Fe, and Katy.
Designed in a Moderne Art Deco style by R.C. Stephens, the building cost $3.5 million, funded by a bond issue.
Today, it houses office spaces and the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame.
Located at 5 S. Boston Ave., this historic site remains an iconic part of Tulsa’s architectural heritage.
4. Boston Avenue Methodist Church
Boston Avenue Methodist Church in downtown Tulsa is a prime example of Art Deco architecture.
Completed in 1929, it exemplifies the elegance of this architectural style.
The church is a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Its design was influenced by the city’s 1920s oil boom, which transformed Tulsa’s skyline.
For those interested in visiting, guided tours are available every Sunday at noon, with additional options for group tours during the week.
The building’s unique design continues to draw admirers from all over.
5. Mid-Continent Tower
The Mid-Continent Tower is a prominent fixture in downtown Tulsa, located at 401 South Boston Avenue. It’s a 36-story skyscraper with a notable height of 156 meters.
Constructed in two phases, the first 16 floors were built in 1918 as the Cosden Building. The remaining 20 floors were added in 1984, creating its distinct cantilevered design.
Known for its bright white terra cotta facade and unique copper roof, the Mid-Continent Tower stands out amid Tulsa’s skyline.
This building combines historic elegance with modern architectural techniques.
6. Cain’s Ballroom
Cain’s Ballroom is a historic music venue in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Built in 1924 as a garage for W. Tate Brady’s automobiles, it was later purchased by Madison W. “Daddy” Cain in 1930.
Cain transformed it into a dance academy. Over the years, it evolved into one of the city’s prime music venues.
It holds a prominent place in Tulsa’s cultural landscape and has been ranked among the top club venues for ticket sales globally.
Located at 423 N Main St., Cain’s Ballroom remains a cherished landmark and continues to attract music lovers from all over.
7. Tulsa Performing Arts Center
The Tulsa Performing Arts Center is a key venue for arts and culture in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Opened in March 1977, it hosts events by 14 local performance groups.
Containing four main theaters and an art gallery, its largest space is the Chapman Music Hall, which seats 2,365 people.
The building was designed by architect Minoru Yamasaki, known for his work on New York’s World Trade Center.
For more details, visit Tulsa Performing Arts Center.
8. Blue Dome Building
The Blue Dome Building is an iconic landmark in Tulsa, located at 2nd and Elgin Street. Built in 1924, it originally served travelers along Route 66 as a 24-hour gas station.
The building is named for its distinct blue dome, which remains a striking feature of the Tulsa skyline.
Today, the Blue Dome District is a bustling area known for its vibrant nightlife, dining, and entertainment options.
The district hosts various events throughout the year, including the Blue Dome Arts Festival. For more information, visit the Blue Dome Historic District.
9. Holy Family Cathedral
Holy Family Cathedral is an impressive example of neo-Gothic architecture in Tulsa. It was dedicated 100 years ago and is the oldest historic church building in downtown Tulsa.
The church’s structure is inspired by Gothic churches in France, England, and Germany.
The Cathedral of the Holy Family is known for its stunning architectural elements and beautiful design.
It features intricate stained glass windows and towering spires.
Visitors can learn more about the symbolism behind its architecture in the Tri-Spired Tuesdays series.
10. Tulsa Club Hotel
The Tulsa Club Hotel is a prime example of Art Deco architecture in Tulsa.
Originally built in 1927, it served as a private club for Tulsa’s elite during the oil boom.
Restored to its former glory, the hotel maintains elements of the original design while offering modern amenities.
The restored art deco fireplace is a highlight.
Now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the Tulsa Club Hotel continues to impress visitors with its blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury.
Architectural Styles in Tulsa
Tulsa boasts a variety of architectural styles, highlighted by historic Art Deco buildings and innovative contemporary designs.
Each style tells a story of the city’s development and cultural influence.
Art Deco Influence
Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture is a significant highlight. The city experienced a boom in Art Deco buildings during the 1920s and 1930s, thanks to the oil boom.
This style is characterized by rich colors, bold geometric shapes, and lavish ornamentation.
Noteworthy examples include the Boston Avenue Methodist Church and the Pythian Building.
These buildings feature intricate designs and spectacular facades, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic flair of the period.
The Boston Avenue Methodist Church, built in 1929, stands out with its unique vertical lines and tower-like structure, symbolizing aspiration and progress.
The Pythian Building, although not completed as originally planned, still captures the essence of Art Deco with its elegant, streamlined forms and detailed architectural elements.
Contemporary Designs
Modern times have brought new architectural trends to Tulsa, blending functionality with aesthetics.
Contemporary designs in Tulsa often utilize clean lines, open spaces, and innovative materials.
This style reflects the city’s growth and modernization efforts, contributing to its skyline’s dynamic appearance.
Notable examples include sleek office buildings and residential complexes that incorporate glass, steel, and sustainable materials.
These structures often emphasize environmental-friendly features and energy efficiency, aligning with global trends in architectural design.
Historical Significance of Tulsa’s Architecture
Tulsa’s architectural history is deeply tied to the economic booms of the 20th century.
The city’s skyline features styles from Art Deco to Mid-Century Modern, reflecting its growth and transformation over time.
Early 20th Century Developments
In the early 1920s, Tulsa experienced rapid growth due to the oil boom.
This era saw the rise of the Art Deco movement, which left a significant mark on the city’s downtown area.
Buildings like the Pythian Building and the Petroleum Building showcase this distinct style with intricate designs and bold geometric shapes.
Art Deco became a symbol of modernity and prosperity in Tulsa, reflecting the city’s dynamic energy during this period.
Tulsa’s Art Deco buildings often featured lavish decorations, including ornamental reliefs and grand entrances, signifying wealth and progress.
These structures remain iconic, attracting visitors and architecture enthusiasts.
The period also fostered a culture of architectural innovation and competition, making Tulsa a hub for cutting-edge designs.
Mid-Century Modern Movement
Post-World War II, Tulsa saw another shift in architectural trends with the rise of Mid-Century Modern design. This movement emphasized simplicity, functionality, and integration with nature.
Mid-Century Modern buildings in Tulsa often feature large windows, open floor plans, and use of new materials like steel and glass.
The Mid-Century Modern movement brought a minimalist aesthetic to Tulsa’s architecture, moving away from the elaborate detailing of Art Deco. Notable examples of this style can be found in residential and commercial buildings across the city.
These structures aimed to bring the outdoors inside, creating harmonious living spaces that were both practical and visually appealing.
This period also marked a time of economic diversification for Tulsa, as the city expanded beyond its oil roots. The influence of the Mid-Century Modern movement can still be seen in Tulsa’s neighborhoods and public spaces, highlighting a legacy of architectural innovation and adaptation.