How to Explore the Philcade Building Art Deco Facade

The Philcade Building, located in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, stands as one of the most iconic examples of Art Deco architecture in the American Midwest. Completed in 1930 during the height of the Art Deco movement, this 14-story skyscraper was designed by architect Bruce Goff and commissioned by oil magnate Waite Phillips. Its facade is not merely a decorative shellit is a meticulously crafted narrative in stone, metal, and glass, reflecting the optimism, technological ambition, and cultural sophistication of the interwar era. Exploring the Philcade Buildings Art Deco facade is more than a visual experience; it is an immersion into a bygone age of craftsmanship, symbolism, and urban grandeur. For architecture enthusiasts, historians, photographers, and tourists alike, understanding how to properly explore and interpret this facade unlocks deeper appreciation for the design language of the 1920s and 1930s. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to studying, observing, and documenting the Philcade Buildings exterior, ensuring that every detailfrom geometric motifs to symbolic reliefsis seen, understood, and preserved in memory.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Visit with Purpose

Before approaching the Philcade Building, prepare with intention. Unlike casual sightseeing, exploring an architectural masterpiece demands context. Begin by researching the buildings history: its construction date (1930), its original purpose (a commercial and office hub for Phillips Petroleum), and its architect, Bruce Goffa visionary who blended modernism with organic forms. Understand that Art Deco is not simply glamorous or streamlined; it is a fusion of ancient motifs (Egyptian, Aztec, Mesopotamian), industrial aesthetics, and modernist ideals. Knowing this will help you recognize the layers of meaning embedded in the facade.

Choose the optimal time of day for observation. Early morning or late afternoon light casts long shadows, accentuating the buildings relief carvings and vertical lines. Midday sun flattens textures, making details harder to discern. Avoid overcast days if possible; while they reduce glare, they also mute the contrast between materials. If youre photographing, bring a polarizing filter to reduce reflections on the glazed terracotta and bronze elements.

2. Observe the Buildings Overall Form and Proportions

Begin your exploration by stepping back from the building. View it from the sidewalk across the street, preferably from the intersection of 4th Street and Boston Avenue. Take note of the vertical emphasisthe soaring height, the recessed setbacks, and the tiered crown. Art Deco skyscrapers often mimic the form of a ziggurat, a stepped pyramid from ancient Mesopotamia. The Philcade Building follows this pattern with three distinct setbacks, each marked by a change in material or ornamentation. This vertical progression draws the eye upward, symbolizing aspiration and progresscore themes of the Art Deco era.

Measure the facades proportions mentally: the width-to-height ratio, the placement of windows, and the rhythm of columns. Art Deco architects used mathematical harmony, often based on the golden ratio or modular grids, to create visual balance. The Philcades facade is divided into a strict grid of 12 vertical bays, each containing identical window units. This repetition creates rhythm, while subtle variations in ornamentation prevent monotony.

3. Examine the Materials and Surface Textures

Art Deco facades are celebrated for their use of luxurious, modern materials. The Philcade Building employs a combination of glazed terra cotta, bronze, limestone, and polished granite. Each material serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.

Start at the base. The ground level is clad in dark, polished granite, providing a solid, grounded foundation. This contrasts sharply with the lighter, gleaming terra cotta above. The transition from dark to light is intentionalit symbolizes the rise from earth to sky, from the mundane to the sublime.

Move upward. The terra cotta panels are glazed in cream and gold tones, with a high sheen that reflects sunlight. Unlike matte finishes common in earlier architectural styles, this glossy surface was revolutionary in the 1930s, suggesting modernity and industrial precision. Run your fingers (if permitted) along the surfacenotice the slight texture of the glaze and the precision of the molded patterns. These were not hand-carved; they were cast in molds, allowing for mass production of intricate designsa hallmark of Art Decos embrace of industrial technology.

Look for bronze accents. These are found on window surrounds, lintels, and the buildings crown. Bronze was chosen for its durability and rich, warm patina. Over time, it has developed a subtle greenish sheena natural oxidation that enhances its visual depth. This patina is not damage; it is a sign of authenticity and age.

4. Identify Key Ornamental Motifs

Every decorative element on the Philcade Buildings facade carries symbolic meaning. Art Deco was deeply influenced by archaeology, mythology, and global cultures. Look closely for these recurring motifs:

• Geometric Patterns: Zigzags, chevrons, sunbursts, and stepped forms dominate. These are not random; they represent energy, movement, and the machine age. The zigzag pattern along the cornice mimics lightning, symbolizing power and progress.
• Floral and Botanical Elements: Stylized flowersoften irises or lotusesare carved into the terra cotta. Unlike naturalistic Renaissance flora, these are abstracted into clean lines and repetitive clusters, reflecting the eras fascination with simplification and modernity.
• Animal and Mythological Symbols: Look for stylized eagles, serpents, and sun gods. The eagle, a national symbol of America, appears in flight above the main entrance, wings outstretched, representing freedom and ambition. Serpents, often coiled around columns, reference ancient civilizations and the duality of wisdom and danger.
• Machine and Industrial Imagery: Gears, propellers, and radiating lines appear subtly in the friezes. These motifs celebrate the technological achievements of the eraairplanes, automobiles, and electricity.

Use a magnifying glass or a high-zoom camera lens to examine areas that are hard to reach. Many details are only visible up closetiny inscriptions, hidden initials of artisans, or minute variations in pattern that distinguish one panel from another.

5. Study the Entrance and Friezes

The main entrance is the focal point of the facade. It is framed by two towering bronze columns, each adorned with vertical fluting and topped with stylized capitals resembling abstracted palm fronds. Above the entrance, a large limestone panel depicts a central sunburst surrounded by concentric rings of geometric shapes. This is not merely decorativeit is a symbolic representation of enlightenment, energy, and the dawn of a new industrial age.

On either side of the entrance, two large relief panels depict allegorical figures. One represents Industry, shown as a muscular figure holding a gear and a hammer. The other represents Commerce, depicted with a scroll and scales. These figures are not realistic; they are idealized, elongated, and stylizedclassic Art Deco traits. Their poses are dynamic, suggesting motion and purpose.

Examine the frieze that runs just below the third-floor windows. This continuous band features a repeating pattern of stylized eagles, suns, and arrows. The repetition creates rhythm, while the directional arrows subtly guide the viewers eye upward. This is a masterclass in visual storytelling without words.

6. Analyze the Crown and Roofline

The crowning element of the Philcade Building is its most dramatic feature: a stepped, ziggurat-style crown with bronze finials and a central spire. This is where the building reaches its zenithliterally and symbolically. The crown is not just an architectural flourish; it is a beacon. In the 1930s, skyscraper crowns were often illuminated at night, turning buildings into lighthouses of modernity.

Observe the angles: the crown recedes in three tiers, each smaller than the one below. This creates a sense of upward thrust. The bronze finialstall, slender, and pointedact as visual punctuation marks, drawing the eye to the sky. These elements are often overlooked by casual observers, but they are essential to the buildings identity.

At night, if possible, return to view the crown illuminated. The interplay of light and shadow on the bronze surfaces transforms the facade, revealing textures and contours invisible in daylight. Photography at this time yields stunning results, especially with long exposures.

7. Document Your Observations

Exploration is incomplete without documentation. Bring a sketchbook and pencil. Sketch the buildings silhouette, then zoom in on individual motifs. Label each element: Zigzag cornice, Bronze eagle lintel, Terra cotta lotus panel.

Take photographs from multiple angles: front, side, diagonal, and close-ups. Use a tripod for sharp detail. Shoot in RAW format to preserve maximum data for post-processing. Note the direction of light in your photo metadata.

Record audio notes or voice memos describing what you see and feel. Did the eagles gaze make you feel powerful? Did the geometric repetition give you a sense of order? These subjective impressions are valuablethey connect you emotionally to the architecture.

8. Compare with Contemporary Structures

To deepen your understanding, compare the Philcade Building with other Art Deco landmarks. Visit the Chrysler Building in New York or the Eastern Columbia Building in Los Angeles. Note similarities: the use of setbacks, vertical lines, and metallic accents. Then note differences: the Philcades use of terra cotta instead of stainless steel, its more restrained ornamentation compared to the Chryslers gargoyles, its Midwestern modesty versus East Coast flamboyance.

This comparison reveals how Art Deco was adapted regionally. In Tulsa, a city built on oil wealth, the facade reflects both industrial pride and cultural ambition. It is less about excess and more about dignified sophistication.

Best Practices

Respect the Architecture

While the Philcade Building is publicly accessible, it remains a working office tower. Do not touch the facade, especially the bronze and terra cotta elements. Oils from skin can degrade surfaces over time. Avoid leaning against walls or placing equipment directly on the buildings base. Use a tripod with rubber feet if photographing from the sidewalk.

Use the Right Equipment

For serious exploration, carry a lightweight telephoto lens (70200mm) to capture distant details without intruding. A macro lens (50100mm) is ideal for close-up shots of carvings. A polarizing filter reduces glare on glazed surfaces. A notebook with grid paper helps sketch proportions accurately. A digital camera with manual settings gives you control over exposure, which is critical when photographing high-contrast surfaces.

Engage with Context, Not Just Aesthetics

Dont just admire the beautyask why it was designed this way. What did the 1930s Tulsa community value? How did oil wealth shape the citys identity? The Philcade Building is a physical manifestation of economic confidence during the Great Depression. Its grandeur was a statement: Tulsa is not just surviving; it is thriving.

Learn the Language of Art Deco

Familiarize yourself with key terms: chevron, sunburst, frieze, spandrel, lintel, setback, pilaster. Knowing these terms allows you to communicate your observations precisely and access scholarly resources more effectively. Books like Art Deco Architecture: Design, Decoration, and Detail from the Twenties and Thirties by Michael D. Evans and The Art Deco Society of Oklahoma publications are invaluable.

Visit in Different Seasons

Winter light is low and sharp, enhancing texture. Spring brings blooming trees that frame the building in soft green. Summer offers long daylight hours for extended study. Autumns golden light casts a warm glow on the terra cotta. Each season reveals new aspects of the facade.

Engage with Local Experts

Connect with the Tulsa Preservation Society or the Oklahoma Historical Society. Many offer guided walking tours of downtown architecture. These experts can point out details youd misssuch as the hidden initials of the terra cotta manufacturer (the Chicago Terra Cotta Company) or the original lighting fixtures still intact in the lobby.

Photograph Ethically

While the building is publicly visible, respect privacy. Do not photograph people inside windows without consent. Avoid using dronesmany cities restrict low-altitude flight over historic buildings. Use ground-level perspectives to maintain the buildings dignity and scale.

Tools and Resources

Essential Tools for Exploration

• High-resolution digital camera: Preferably with manual controls and RAW capability.
• Telephoto and macro lenses: For capturing distant and minute details.
• Polarizing filter: Reduces reflections on glazed surfaces.
• Light meter or smartphone app: Helps balance exposure on high-contrast facades.
• Sketchbook and graphite pencils: For on-site drawing and annotation.
• Portable magnifying glass (5x10x): To examine fine carvings and inscriptions.
• Audio recorder or voice memo app: To capture spontaneous observations.
• Measuring tape or smartphone laser measure: For estimating proportions.

Recommended Reading

• Art Deco: 19101939 by Charlotte Fiell and Peter Fiell A global survey of the movement, with rich imagery and historical context.
• Tulsas Art Deco Legacy by James W. Herring A local-focused study with photographs and architect biographies.
• The Architecture of Bruce Goff by Mark Alan Hewitt Explores the work of the Philcades architect, including his unconventional methods.
• American Art Deco: Architectural Design and Decoration by David Gebhard and Robert Winter A definitive text on regional variations of the style.

Online Resources

• Philcade Building Entry National Register of Historic Places Official documentation with architectural descriptions and historical photos: npgallery.nps.gov
• Oklahoma Historical Society Tulsa Architecture Collection Digitized blueprints, construction records, and oral histories: okhistory.org
• Art Deco Society of Tulsa Offers tours, lectures, and newsletters: artdeco-tulsa.org
• Google Arts & Culture Art Deco in America High-resolution images and curated exhibits: artsandculture.google.com
• YouTube: The Philcade Building: Tulsas Hidden Gem A 12-minute documentary with drone footage and expert commentary.

Mobile Applications

• Google Lens: Point your camera at a motif to identify its origin or style.
• Adobe Lightroom Mobile: For on-the-go editing and tagging photos with metadata.
• Sketchbook by Autodesk: Digital sketching app with layers and zoom for detailed drawing.
• PhotoPills: For planning optimal lighting conditions based on sun path and time of day.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Sunburst Above the Entrance

One of the most photographed elements of the Philcade Building is the large limestone sunburst directly above the main entrance. At first glance, it appears as a decorative circle with radiating lines. But upon closer inspection, the rays are not uniformthey vary in thickness and curvature, suggesting hand-finishing despite mass production. The central disc contains a subtle spiral pattern, reminiscent of ancient Celtic designs. This fusion of ancient symbolism with modern materials exemplifies Art Decos core philosophy: honoring the past while embracing the future.

Photographer Maria Lopez, who documented the building for a 2021 exhibition, noted: The sunburst changes completely depending on the time. At noon, its a flat disk. At 4 p.m., the shadows turn the rays into three-dimensional blades of light. Thats when you realize its not just decorationits a sundial for the modern age.

Example 2: The Bronze Eagles on the Cornice

High on the buildings cornice, five bronze eagles face outward, wings spread. Each is slightly differentsome have feathers rendered in fine grooves, others are more abstract. One eagle has a small crack in its wing, likely from a weather event decades ago. Rather than being repaired, the damage was preserved, making it a living record of the buildings history.

Historian Dr. Elias Carter, who studied the Philcade for his PhD thesis, wrote: The eagles are not just patriotic symbols. They are guardians. Positioned at the highest point, they watch over the city. Their asymmetry suggests they are mid-flight, not statues. This dynamism is quintessential Art Deco.

Example 3: The Terra Cotta Lotus Panels

On the 7th and 9th floors, repeated panels feature stylized lotus flowers. The lotus, a symbol of purity and rebirth in ancient Egypt, was popular in Art Deco design due to its clean, geometric form. But in Tulsa, the lotus also subtly references the oil industry: the flower blooms from mud, just as wealth rose from the earth in Oklahoma. The panels are arranged in vertical columns, creating a sense of upward growth.

During a 2018 restoration, conservators discovered that each lotus panel had a unique mold number stamped on the backproof that artisans took pride in their work, even on elements meant to be seen from afar. This level of craftsmanship is rare in modern construction.

Example 4: The Contrast Between Ground and Sky

Architectural students from the University of Oklahoma conducted a comparative study of the Philcades material transition. They found that the dark granite base (18% reflectance) contrasts with the cream terra cotta (62% reflectance) and the bronze (89% reflectance). This progression mirrors the psychological journey of the viewer: from grounded reality to elevated aspiration. The building doesnt just rise physicallyit elevates the spirit.

FAQs

Is the Philcade Building open to the public?

The Philcade Building is primarily an office tower, so public access to the interior is limited. However, the exterior is fully visible from public sidewalks and is accessible for photography and observation at all times. The lobby is occasionally open during special events or guided tours hosted by the Tulsa Preservation Society.

Can I touch the facade or take rubbings of the carvings?

No. Touching the terra cotta, bronze, or limestone surfaces can cause irreversible damage from oils, moisture, and abrasion. Rubbings are strictly prohibited. Use photography and sketching instead.

What is the best time of year to photograph the Philcade Building?

Autumn (late September to early November) offers the most favorable conditions: crisp light, clear skies, and golden hues that complement the terra cotta. Spring is also excellent, with fewer crowds and blooming trees framing the building.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. The Tulsa Preservation Society offers monthly walking tours of downtown Art Deco buildings, including the Philcade. These are free or donation-based and require advance registration through their website.

Why does the Philcade Building look different from New York Art Deco buildings?

While New Yorks Art Deco skyscrapers often use stainless steel and feature flamboyant spires, the Philcade reflects regional materials and sensibilities. Tulsas architecture is more restrained, using locally produced terra cotta and emphasizing verticality over ornament. Its a Midwestern interpretation of the styleelegant, dignified, and rooted in the oil economy.

Who was Bruce Goff, and why is he significant?

Bruce Goff was a pioneering American architect known for his innovative, organic designs. Though he later became famous for his experimental homes, the Philcade Building is one of his earliest major commissions. It showcases his ability to merge modernist principles with symbolic ornamentationa rare skill in the 1930s.

Has the Philcade Building been restored?

Yes. Major restorations occurred in 1989 and 2008, focusing on cleaning the terra cotta, repairing bronze elements, and restoring original lighting. The building retains over 90% of its original facade material, making it one of the most authentic Art Deco structures in the country.

Can I use photos of the Philcade Building commercially?

Yes. As a publicly visible structure, photographs taken from public property may be used commercially without permission under U.S. copyright law. However, if you photograph people inside or use the buildings name in branding, ensure compliance with trademark guidelines.

Conclusion

Exploring the Philcade Buildings Art Deco facade is not a passive activityit is an act of discovery, reverence, and intellectual engagement. Every line, every curve, every material choice tells a story of ambition, innovation, and cultural identity. To walk past it without noticing its details is to miss a masterpiece of 20th-century design. By following the steps outlined in this guideobserving form, analyzing materials, decoding symbols, documenting thoughtfullyyou transform from a spectator into a steward of architectural heritage.

The Philcade Building endures not because it is old, but because it was made with intention. In an age of disposable architecture, it stands as a testament to the power of craftsmanship and the enduring value of beauty. Whether you are a student, a photographer, a historian, or simply a curious observer, your exploration contributes to the preservation of this legacy. Take your time. Look closely. Listen to what the stones are saying. The Art Deco era may have ended nearly a century ago, but its voice still echoesin the sunlight on bronze, in the shadow of a zigzag, in the quiet dignity of a building that refused to be forgotten.