World Fairs have been an important platform for showcasing new technologies, cultural achievements, and artistic movements worldwide. These events hlave been instrumental in shaping the development of modernist architecture, which emphasizes form, function, and innovation over traditional ornamentation. World’s Fair Architecture and Its enduring Impact on design are still evident today. In this article, we will explore the history behind World’s Fairs, World’s Fair Architecture’s influence on modernist architecture, Frank Wallace’s Architectural Style, and lastly, glean the notable works by Frank Wallace at O.R.U.

The History Behind World’s Fairs.

World’s Fairs began in 1851 with the Great Exhibition in London, which was the first event of its kind. The Great Exhibition showcased the latest technologies and innovations worldwide and was housed in a glass and iron structure called the Crystal Palace. This structure became an iconic symbol of the Industrial Revolution and set the stage for future World Fairs.

Over time, World’s Fair Architecture evolved from grand pavilions to temporary structures designed to be dismantled after the event. This allowed architects to experiment with new materials and construction techniques without the constraints of permanence. The 1929 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris was a watershed moment for World’s Fair Architecture, as it introduced the world to the emerging Art Deco style. This style was characterized by its use of modern materials such as steel, glass, and concrete and its emphasis on form over ornamentation.

The 1939 New York World’s Fair showcased the streamlined Art Moderne style, which was characterized by its sleek, aerodynamic forms and futuristic design. Many of the fair’s iconic buildings, such as the Trylon and Perisphere and the General Motors Futurama exhibit, embodied this futuristic aesthetic and became symbols of the event.

World’s Fair Architecture and the Influence On Modernist Architecture

World’s Fair Architecture has had a lasting impact on modernist architecture, with many architects and designers still drawing inspiration from these events. The emphasis on innovation, function, and form that was central to World’s Fair Architecture remains a driving force in contemporary design, with architects and designers constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with new materials and technologies.

World’s Fair Architecture has left an enduring impact on design that is still evident today. These events were instrumental in shaping the development of modernist architecture and continue to inspire architects and designers worldwide. The legacy of World’s Fair Architecture is a testament to the power of design to shape our world and push us towards new frontiers.

“Form follows function – that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.”

— Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Wallace’s Architectural Style

Frank Wallace’s Architectural style incorporated many of these art deco elements into his designs, using geometric shapes, bold colors, and decorative motifs to create functional and beautiful buildings. One of his most famous works, the City of Faith Medical and Research Center, featured a bold, geometric façade and intricate decorative details that were reminiscent of the art deco style.

At the same time, Frank Wallace was also influenced by modernist architecture, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials and technologies. Modernist architects believed that buildings should be designed with a focus on their intended purpose and that form should follow function. They also strongly emphasized materials such as concrete, steel, and glass.

The Notable Works By Frank Wallace at O.R.U

Frank Wallace was the architect of several notable buildings on the Oral Roberts University (O.R.U) campus in Tulsa, Oklahoma, including the Main Campus -The Learning Resource and Graduate Centers, the Prayer Tower and Gardens, and the City of Faith Medical and Research Center known today as the CityPlex Towers mentioned earlier. Let’s dive deep into these three pieces of architecture that have been influenced by the philosophies of the World Fairs Architecture and Modern Architecture.

Main Campus – The Learning Resource and Graduate Center is located on the main campus of Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The building, which was completed in 1965, serves as a hub for student activities and resources.

The Prayer Tower is a distinctive cylindrical tower that rises 200 ft high and features a cross-shaped window at the top. The tower serves as a prayer space and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its observation deck.

The CityPlex Towers are a pair of office buildings located south of the O.R.U campus. Wallace designed the towers with a stepped form that creates a striking visual effect and provides outdoor terraces for building occupants to enjoy. Read on to learn more about these three World’s Fair Architecture examples.

Main Campus John D. Messick Learning Resource and Graduate Center

Architectural Building Quick Facts

The building features a modernist design, with curved exterior and sleek lines that emphasize its dynamic form. The exterior is clad in beige precast concrete panels and features a series of vertical fins that provide shading and help reduce solar gain. The interior of the building is designed to facilitate learning and collaboration, with various spaces catering to different needs. The building includes classrooms, lecture halls, study rooms, a library, administrative offices, and student services.

One of the most striking features of the building is the Eternal Flame Fountain, located near the Learning Resource and Graduate Center. The fountain is a striking landmark on the campus, consisting of a circular pool of water with a central pedestal that supports a large flame-shaped sculpture. The sculpture is made of bronze and is lit at night, creating a dramatic effect that can be seen from afar.

The Eternal Flame Fountain symbolizes the university’s commitment to education and spiritual values. The flame represents the eternal nature of knowledge and the pursuit of truth, while the water symbolizes purification and renewal. It serves as a gathering place for students, faculty, and visitors and is often used as a backdrop for photographs and events.

The Prayer Tower and Prayer Gardens

Architectural Building Quick Facts

The Prayer Tower and Prayer Garden is a distinctive architectural landmark located in ORU. The tower rises 200 ft high and features a cylindrical form that tapers upwards, creating a dramatic silhouette against the sky. The tower’s exterior is clad in white precast concrete panels that are arranged in a rhythmic pattern, creating a sense of movement and texture. The panels are punctuated by narrow vertical windows that allow light to filter into the interior spaces.

These pictures were taken overlooking the prayer gardens at the 360 observation deck.

These pictures were taken walking the steps toward the prayer gardens

At the top of the tower, a cross-shaped window is set into the concrete panels, which creates a striking visual focal point and symbolizes the building’s religious function as a prayer space.

The Prayer Tower interior is equally impressive, with a circular observation deck that offers panoramic views of Tulsa and the surrounding landscape. The deck is reached by an enclosed circular stair that winds its way up the tower’s interior.

The same rhythmic pattern of the exterior concrete panels is continued throughout the interior, with alternating bands of light and dark that create a dynamic visual effect. The interior space’s circular shape enhances the unity and community inherent in the building’s function as a prayer space.

The Prayer Tower and Gardens is a striking example of modernist architecture that is both functional and expressive. Its dynamic form, innovative use of materials, and powerful symbolism make it an important landmark in the history of American religious architecture.

CityPlex Towers

Architectural Building Quick Facts

The complex was designed with a unique circular layout allowing efficient circulation and creating a sense of community among patients, staff, and visitors. The circular shape also allowed natural light to penetrate the interior spaces, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

The main hospital building was clad in white precast concrete panels, with a repeating pattern of square windows that created a sense of rhythm and movement. A series of curved walkways and bridges connecting the complex’s different wings emphasized the building’s circular shape.

The interior of the City of Faith Medical and Research Center was designed with the needs of patients and staff in mind, featuring spacious waiting areas, comfortable patient rooms, and state-of-the-art medical facilities. The complex also included a medical school and research facilities that were among the most advanced of their time.

The City of Faith Medical and Research Center was a pioneering example of healthcare architecture that integrated functional design with a sense of community and purpose. Frank Wallace’s innovative approach to design created a facility that was both efficient and welcoming, providing patients and staff with a world-class healthcare experience.

Today, The CityPlex Towers is a mixed-use development used for a variety of purposes today. The towers comprise two high-rise buildings: office spaces, medical facilities, and retail.

Interested in what you have seen? Check out the Virtual Tour @ O.R.U Robert if you want a more in-depth tour.

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LE CHATEAU DE PIERRE Journal is an Architecture and Interior design Journal dedicated to sharing and exploring tips for emerging professionals and educating readers about great architecture and building design concepts. Our publication is designed to inspire and inform both new and experienced Interior designers, architects, and those interested in the field of architecture.