Surber Barber Choate & Hertlein

Private Residence

Tulsa, Oklahoma

The owners' taste preferences are typically contemporary, however, with their prominent location in an established neighborhood, moved them to request an exterior architectural appearance that would be sympathetic with the surrounding historically styled homes. Their desire was for a home that blended comfortably with the traditional context, yet expressed a contemporary, artistic spirit. Traditional forms and materials were employed, but detailed minimally, producing a slightly abstract aesthetic.

Important to the owners was the ability to house and display their extensive collections of photo-realist paintings and primitive art objects. Also, important in the planning of the residence was the configuration within the site to allow for optimal access to exterior gardens and lawns for convenient flow of interior spaces outward. Inside, simple and clean design details were utilized to provide the restrained interiors, desired as a setting for the extensive collection of large paintings and carefully displayed objects. Extensive lighting design provided for optimal display of the artwork. The interior spaces were arranged to provide views from all major spaces to one of several outdoor fountains.

Among the interior spaces is a double height kitchen, surrounded above by balconies opening off of the childrens' bedrooms, opening into a large family room with views beyond to a swimming pool fed by a large fountain beyond. Similarly, a two-level, circular library overlooks a private courtyard containing another fountain. The dining room opens outward to a walled garden containing another large sculptural fountain, providing the pleasant sound of flowing water.

Among the spaces contained within, are living room, dining room, kitchen, family room, library, game room, playroom, crafts room, children's study room, six bedrooms, ten bathrooms, laundry and various pantries, and storage areas.

Locally available limestone (quarried nearby) was employed in the exterior stone walls, as well as the paved terraces and exterior stone steps. Additional exterior materials, such as Indiana limestone trim pieces, stained cypress siding, Vermont roof slate and copper accessories provide for a durable exterior architecture that should be weather gracefully.

Client: Private Residence

Completion: 2001

Image 1 Compliments of Bill Stokely
Images 2-11 © John Umberger
Image this page © James E. Choate