Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Pythian Building stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural history and the resilience of its community. This remarkable structure, with its Art Deco charm, invites visitors to explore a piece of Tulsa's past while marveling at its unique design.
The Pythian Building, originally known as the Gillette-Tyrrell Building, began its journey in 1929, conceived by two ambitious oilmen, J. M. Gillette and H. C. Tyrrell. Their vision was grand—a three-story office building crowned by a ten-story hotel. However, the Great Depression had other plans, halting construction at just three stories. In 1931, the Knights of Pythias acquired the building, transforming it into an office space and bestowing upon it the name we know today.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the Pythian Building is celebrated for its Art Deco architecture, showcasing elements of both Modern and Zig Zag styles. This iconic building also contributes to the Oil Capital Historic District, a nod to Tulsa's storied past during the oil boom era.
As you approach the Pythian Building, you'll be captivated by its intricate facade. Positioned at the northeast corner of West 5th Street and South Boulder Avenue, the building welcomes visitors with entrances on both streets, linked by an elegant L-shaped lobby. Originally, each entrance boasted a canopy, with the Boulder Avenue canopy crafted from steel in a delicate lace-like design, and the 5th Street canopy adorned with terra cotta.
The building's exterior is a visual feast, with vertical piers stretching from base to parapet, adorned with a striking diamond pattern. This zig-zag motif is a recurring theme throughout the structure. Blue terra cotta accents grace the spandrels, while cream-colored terra cotta envelops the spaces between the piers. The roofline adds a splash of color with its blue, burnt sienna, and green terra cotta hues. Ground-floor openings feature a Tudor arch design, filled with glass framed in a bundled-reed pattern, adding to the building's charm.
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Step inside, and you'll find that the Pythian Building's interior is as captivating as its exterior. The lobby floor is a masterpiece of tiling, echoing the zig-zag design seen outside. This pattern extends up the walls, culminating in a high perimeter wainscot. At the east end of the lobby, a staircase invites you to ascend to a second-floor balcony, while beneath it, elevators whisk you to the upper floors.
One of the interior's most striking features is the ceiling, which appears to be a vast skylight. In reality, it's a cleverly designed lighting fixture, its glass lens crafted to resemble a folded plate—a novel innovation of its time. Adding to the ambiance are eight slender chandeliers, each adorned with etched glass panels, terminating in a triangular design. These chandeliers, designed and fabricated by the Empire Chandelier Manufacturing Company, provide a warm and inviting glow.
In 2012, the Pythian Building found itself on the market, with Kanbar Properties offering it for sale at a sealed bid auction. Though the results were not immediately disclosed, it later emerged that developer W. Stuart Price and his family firm, Price Family Properties, acquired a significant interest in the building, along with several other Tulsa properties.
Today, the Pythian Building continues to be a vital part of Tulsa's commercial landscape, a symbol of the city's resilience and adaptability. Its blend of history and modernity offers a unique experience for both locals and visitors alike.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Pythian Building promises an enriching experience. As you explore its halls and admire its design, you'll find yourself transported back to a time when Tulsa was at the forefront of the oil boom, a city of dreams and ambition.
In conclusion, the Pythian Building is more than just a structure; it's a piece of Tulsa's soul, a reminder of the city's journey through prosperity and challenge. Its walls echo stories of the past, inviting all who enter to become a part of its enduring legacy.
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