The Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, stands as an iconic testament to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural genius.
Completed in 1956, it is the only realized high-rise design by Wright. Originally envisioned in 1929 as a project for New York City, it was ultimately built in Bartlesville, transforming the skyline with its unique, organic design.
Wright’s vision for the Price Tower was an intertwining of function and form.
The building’s layout divides its interior into four quadrants, creating distinct spaces within the vertical structure.
This innovative approach not only highlights Wright’s creativity but also maximizes the use of space in an elegant and efficient way.
Visitors today can explore the Price Tower Arts Center, which includes a museum featuring modern art, textiles, and design.
The center showcases changing exhibits, ensuring there is always something new to discover.
This blend of historical architecture and contemporary art makes the Price Tower a must-see for both architecture enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Historical Context and Significance
Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, is an iconic structure that showcases the unique vision of Frank Lloyd Wright and the impactful patronage of Harold C. Price. Its designation as a National Historic Landmark underscores its architectural and historical importance.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Vision
Frank Lloyd Wright, an innovative architect, saw Price Tower as a “Prairie Skyscraper.” He initially designed the building in 1929 as apartments for New York City, but the plan was not realized at that time.
Instead, in 1952, Wright adapted his design for Bartlesville. The final structure was completed in 1956.
Wright’s design integrates copper and glass, creating a unique aesthetic that emphasizes vertical lines and organic geometry. This building stands as his tallest built project, illustrating Wright’s progressive ideas in urban architecture.
Harold C. Price’s Patronage
Harold C. Price, the founder of H.C. Price Company, was the visionary who brought Wright’s design to life in Bartlesville.
Price wanted a headquarters that stood out, and he chose Wright to achieve this goal. The collaboration resulted in a 19-story tower that not only served as office space but also included apartments and commercial facilities.
Price’s support allowed Wright to explore innovative concepts, turning the building into an artistic and functional marvel. This partnership illustrates the significant role of patrons in advancing architectural creativity.
National Historic Landmark Recognition
Price Tower was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2007, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.
The designation highlights the building’s unique design and its role in the history of American architecture.
Price Tower also appears on the National Register of Historic Places, connecting it to other historic sites such as Phillips Petroleum facilities and other landmarks in Bartlesville.
The recognition underscores the importance of preserving this Prairie Skyscraper, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
Architectural Design and Innovation
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower is an architectural marvel known for its unique structure, innovative use of materials, and multifunctional design. This section explores the key elements that set the building apart.
The Skyscraper’s Unique Structure
Price Tower is the only realized high-rise designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Located in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, the building stands out for its distinct form inspired by the Oklahoma Prairie.
Its design features an equilateral triangle and a parallelogram grid, creating a strong, stable base, which is evident in the building’s 19-story height.
The structure utilizes floor plates that vary in size and shape. This design offers flexibility in interior spaces while maintaining structural integrity.
Wright’s influence from his earlier prairie houses is evident, blending modernist principles with organic architecture.
Copper Facade and Concrete Core
One of the most striking features of Price Tower is its copper facade. Wright chose copper panels to give the building a distinctive appearance that would weather beautifully over time.
This choice enhances the organic feel of the design, connecting the structure to its environment.
Underneath the aesthetic copper facade lies a robust concrete core. This core provides essential support and stability, ensuring the building’s endurance.
The combination of durable materials and thoughtful design elements highlights Wright’s attention to both form and function.
Innovative Multi-Use Space
Price Tower was designed as a multi-use building, incorporating offices, apartments, and retail spaces under one roof.
This innovative approach was ahead of its time, providing varied functionalities within a single structure.
The diverse offerings cater to different needs, making the tower a hub of activity.
The interior spaces are designed with versatility in mind.
The floor plates’ unique shapes allow for flexible room configurations, accommodating various uses without compromising the building’s architectural integrity.
This multi-use aspect demonstrates Wright’s forward-thinking vision, merging practicality with design excellence.
Cultural and Artistic Impact
The Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, has had a significant influence on both cultural and artistic landscapes. This impact is evident in the establishment of the Price Tower Arts Center, its contributions to modern architecture, and the thoughtful renovations and restorations it has undergone.
Price Tower Arts Center and Museum
The Price Tower Arts Center was founded in 1985 as a civic art museum. In 1998, it reorganized to focus on art, architecture, and design.
The center features a museum with rotating exhibits and collections, including modern art, works on paper, furniture, textiles, and design.
The center also includes educational programs aimed at inspiring artists and engaging the public. This has turned the tower into a landmark for cultural enrichment in the region.
Contribution to Modern Architecture
Completed in 1956, the Price Tower is Frank Lloyd Wright’s only realized skyscraper.
It significantly influenced modern architecture with its innovative use of materials such as cast concrete walls, pigmented concrete floors, and aluminum-trimmed windows and doors.
The design is a departure from traditional building techniques, causing the tower to stand out on the Oklahoma prairie.
Noted architects like Bruce Goff and Zaha Hadid have cited Price Tower as an inspiration for their own work, further cementing its status in the world of architecture.
Renovations and Restorations
Purchased by Phillips Petroleum in 1981, the Price Tower has undergone various renovations and restorations.
These efforts have preserved the integrity of Wright’s design while modernizing facilities to meet current standards.
The restorations have included the addition of a museum, hotel, and bar, making the tower a multifunctional space that continues to draw visitors and scholars alike.
Each renovation carefully balances the original architectural elements with necessary updates, ensuring the tower’s historical significance is maintained.
Price Tower Today: Commerce and Community
Price Tower functions as a multi-use building, blending commerce and community spaces. It boasts amenities like a hotel and restaurant, thus attracting visitors and serving the local population, while also contributing to the local economy and cultural scene.
Hotel and Restaurant Amenities
The Inn at Price Tower provides guests with unique lodgings inside this iconic skyscraper.
Each room offers a glimpse into Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural genius, featuring classic design elements.
The facility offers a mix of modern comforts and historical charm, making it a sought-after destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
Alongside the hotel is the restaurant, with views that highlight the building’s distinctive architecture.
Diners can enjoy a meal while appreciating the aesthetics Wright envisioned. This setting makes the restaurant popular not only for its food but also for the unique experience it offers.
Economic and Social Significance
Price Tower has become a pivotal location for the local economy and community in Bartlesville. The building houses various businesses and services, contributing to economic growth.
The presence of the Public Service Company of Oklahoma and other tenants in the building ensures a steady flow of people, which boosts local commerce.
The building’s design and function draw attention to Bartlesville, showcasing it as a city with rich architectural heritage.
It also serves as a cultural hub with the Wright Place Museum Store, offering educational materials and souvenirs.
The multi-use nature of Price Tower fosters a sense of community by providing a shared space for residents and visitors alike.
The building stands as a significant landmark not just for its height and design but for its ongoing contributions to commerce and community life.