A groundbreaking architectural masterpiece, the Adah Robinson House designed by Bruce Goff, astonishes once more over 100 years since its completion.
The Adah Robinson House, a historically and architecturally significant residence, stands as a remarkable archetype of early modern architecture. The house, designed by Bruce Goff and Adah Robinson, is a living example of the work of one of America's great architects.
The house was commissioned by Robinson, Goff's high school art teacher, shortly after Goff graduated high school at the age of 19. The design originally served as Robinson’s studio and later became her primary residence after the addition of a kitchen.
The collaboration between Robinson and Goff was complex but fruitful. While Robinson was not a formally trained architect, she provided the initial concepts and artistic direction. Goff, with his architectural skills, translated these ideas into detailed plans. Their partnership also included the renowned Boston Avenue Methodist Church, where Robinson was credited as the creative mind and Goff the draftsman.
The Adah Robinson House is important for several reasons. It represents the early and visionary work of Bruce Goff, who would become one of America’s most innovative architects. The design reflects a blend of creativity and experimentation that was characteristic of Goff’s later works. The house also served as a cultural salon where artists and intellectuals gathered, making it a vibrant hub for creative exchange beyond Tulsa’s city limits.
Recently, the Adah Robinson House underwent a meticulous restoration led by Rod Yancy and interior designer Justice Quinn. This restoration has preserved the architectural heritage of the house while revitalizing it for contemporary appreciation. The effort has been recognized for bringing new life to this architectural gem, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations of architects, artists, and history enthusiasts.
The restoration of the Adah Robinson House involved the removal of some wood panelling around a fireplace, revealing original plasterwork in a bold and slightly ominous fang-like motif. New elements were designed by Quinn, including ceramic sconces, built-in seating and bookshelves, a bar, stained glass doors and windows. Quinn aimed to bring back as many period-appropriate finishes and furnishings as possible during the restoration. Architect Philip Doyle also worked on the restoration of the Adah Robinson House.
Following its restoration, the Adah Robinson House is beginning its latest chapter as a charitable event space, known as The Oath Studio. It is also serving as a personal retreat for Yancy, the founder and CEO of Oath. The Adah Robinson House, with its two-storey great room, original art deco light fixtures, geometric terrazzo floors, and two otherworldly fireplaces, is set to inspire and captivate visitors for years to come.
Footnotes
- Tulsa World
- The Oklahoman
The meticulous restoration of the Adah Robinson House, a historically significant residence, not only preserved its architectural heritage but also incorporated contemporary elements, making it suitable for a new lifestyle as a charitable event space. The new interior design, led by Justice Quinn, features period-appropriate finishes and furnishings, enhancing the house's early modern aesthetic while catering to modern needs. This blending of home-and-garden (architecture and interior-design) elements transformed the Adah Robinson House into a unique and vibrant venue for cultural events and personal retreats, showcasing the fusion of lifestyle and history.
