Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Wordless Wednesday - Art Deco Canyon Interiors

Last week I shared some images of the wonderful collection of art deco buildings that line the downtown streets of Tulsa, Oklahoma. I grew up in Tulsa Even though I have now lived in NW Arkansas longer than I lived in Tulsa, I am an Okie to the core and Tulsa will always be my hometown. This week I have some of images of the interiors of these great structures that were built by the oil barons of the 20's & 30's.
One of the great things about this period of art & architecture is that NO surface was immune to the designers touch. Here is an ornate mail box that adorns the lobby of one of the buildings.
Here is the entry corridor into the building. Notice the floor tile. Like I said, every surface was an opportunity for the designer to express themselves. The corridor leads to the main lobby below.
Talk about making a statement! Honestly, this lobby is not huge, but it makes a visual impact that just leaves  you speechless. Again, notice the ornate detail of the railing on the stairs and mezzanine.
Even elevator passengers were surrounded with art deco designs. I LOVE this stuff!!!
Elevator doors were a perfect canvas for exploring the geometric patterns that most of us have come to associate with the art deco style.
There is actually a collection of art deco accessories in these display windows. Some of the buildings featured gold leaf on the ceilings. One thing that oil barons seem to have in common is that no expense is spared when it comes to building architectural monuments to their business accomplishments.

Smoking was much more acceptable during this period and an elegant place to put your pipe, cigar, or cigarette was a necessity. These ash trays were designed to be placed next to a lounge chair. Again, no design opportunity was overlooked.
If you are ever in Tulsa, Oklahoma, you really need to spend a couple of hours downtown, looking at the great art deco design that  is a part of the history of my favorite city. Guided and self-guided tours are available.
Okay, tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Have a blessed day with those you love celebrating all that we have to be thankful for, living in the greatest nation on earth. Then, come back Friday for the kick-off of my annual Christmas Music Marathon posts. Every day, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I will post an image of the season and music that will help you focus on the true meaning of Christmas. See you on Friday.


3 comments:

  1. Oh I love all the photographs. Some very cool and ornate buildings.

    You know I'll be here for the Christmas Music Marathon. Wouldn't miss it.

    Have a terrific day and a blessed Thanksgiving. ☺

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  2. I especially love that mailbox. The beauty & detail are stunning

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  3. I have a video on the art deco buildings in Tulsa where the narrator said that that the lobby of the first building you describe is like an art deco quilt wrapped around you. I love that analogy.

    The thing I love about the buidlings in Tulsa is that the security people are understanding of people who just want to come in and take pictures. At the MidContinent building they even have an informational handout.

    Now, I'll have to go back and find your other post.

    I hope that you and your family had a great Thanksgiving Driller!!

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