OKC Foundation for Architecture

T-Shirt Design Competition

Theme:

Designs should showcase architectural elements, buildings, or landmarks iconic in Oklahoma City and Central Oklahoma.

Design Guidelines:

  1. Design Format:
    • One-color design only (any color, but design must use just one ink color).
    • Must be suitable for screen printing on a t-shirt.
    • Design should be front-only.
  2. Artwork Specifications:
    • Submit your design as a high-resolution PNG or vector file (AI, EPS, or PDF).
    • Max design area: 12 x 12 .
    • No gradients, photos, or complex textures – solid lines and shapes only.
  3. Originality:
    • Design must be original and created by the entrant.
    • No copyrighted material or third-party logos may be used.
    • By submitting, you confirm the design is your original work and grant OCFA the right to use it for promotional and fundraising purposes.
  4. Theme Compliance:
    • Design must reflect Oklahoma City or Central Oklahoma architecture.
    • May include specific buildings, architectural details, or creative interpretations of the built environment.

Eligibility:

  • Open to all ages and skill levels.
  • Individuals may submit up to two designs.
  • No entry fee required.

How to Submit:

  • Email your design to okcarchitecture@outlook.com with the subject line: “T-Shirt Design Submission - [Your Name]”
  • Include:
    • Full name
    • Email and phone number
    • Brief description of your design (optional but encouraged)
    • File attachment(s) of your artwork

Deadline:

All entries must be submitted by Monday, September 8 at 5:00 pm.

Judging & Selection:

  • Designs will be judged by the Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture Board.
  • Criteria include creativity, originality, relevance to theme, and overall design appeal.
  • The winning design will be featured on OCFA website and promoted via our website and social media.

Winner Receives:

  • T-shirt featuring their winning design
  • Recognition on OCFA’s website and social media
  • Free membership to the Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture for one year.
  • Bragging rights!

Questions? Contact okcarchitecture@outlook.com

Sketching the Skyline – October 5

Join us for Sketching the Skyline at the iconic Round Barn on Route 66 in Arcadia, Oklahoma! Led by architect and sketching expert, David Boeck, this fun and relaxed event invites participants of all skill levels to capture the unique charm of this historic site. Whether you’re an experienced sketcher or just picking up a pencil for the first time, come enjoy a creative afternoon surrounded by Oklahoma's scenic beauty and architectural history. All are welcome!

We’ll provide all the supplies. Just bring your chair!

Sunday, October 5
2:00 – 3:30 pm
Round Barn
107 E. Highway 66, Arcadia

Cost:
$15 Current OCFA Members
$25 Nonmember
$10 Architecture Students
$15 Urban Sketchers OKC & Tulsa

REGISTER HERE

Discover Oklahoma’s Hidden Architectural Gems – Sunday, August 3 at the Bethany Library!

Discover Oklahoma’s Hidden Architectural Gems – This Sunday at the Bethany Library!

We’re excited to let you know that the Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture will be at the Bethany Library this Sunday, August 3rd at 2:00 PM for a special presentation!

Join us for “Oklahoma’s Hidden (And Not So Hidden) Architectural Gems,” presented by OCFA Board Members Tony Blatt and Mike Patterson.

This free event is a great opportunity to explore Oklahoma Architecture!

Event Details:
 Bethany Library
 Sunday, August 3rd
 2:00 PM

Iconic Stitching Series: The Gold Dome

Iconic Stitching Series: The Gold Dome

Needlepoint Meets Architecture
Discover the art of needlepoint in a whole new way through our Iconic Stitching Series, where history and handcraft come together.

In this session, you’ll receive a one-of-a-kind canvas of the Gold Dome created just for the Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture. The canvas designer and our instructor for the evening is Ellie Dabney of Needlepoint at Su Casa in the Paseo.

All supplies and tools are provided. By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind needlepoint artwork on canvas-ready to enjoy for years to come.

Monday, July 14, 2025
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
AIA / OCFA Office
2220 N. Classen Blvd., Suite A

Cost:
OCFA Members: $40
Nonmember Guests: $50

Seating is limited.

Deadline to register is Monday, July 7.

We’re excited at the response! We are SOLD OUT!

OCFA May Tour – 1141 N. Robinson!

We’re excited to bring you our May Tour! We’ll be joining Barrett Williamson, AIA of Barrett Williamson Architects, Erick Westfahl of Redhawk Construction and Kevin Bahner of Wallace Design Collective to tour 1141 N. Robinson (Stryker Building).

Step Inside Oklahoma City’s Art Deco Gem: 1141 N Robinson Avenue

Embark on an exclusive architectural tour of 1141 N. Robinson, a masterfully restored Art Deco landmark in Midtown Oklahoma City. Originally constructed in 1930, this historic building has been thoughtfully reimagined in 2024, blending timeless elegance with modern functionality.

Tour Highlights:

  • Art Deco Architecture: Marvel at the building’s Indiana limestone fa ade, vintage windows, and custom aluminum moldings that exemplify the grandeur of the Art Deco era.

  • Historic Restoration: Explore the meticulously preserved interior, featuring rare marble walls and restored common areas that pay homage to the building’s rich history.

  • Modern Amenities: Experience the seamless integration of contemporary features, including high ceilings, natural light-filled open-plan layouts, and a 93-seat auditorium designed for events and trainings.

  • Sustainable Design: Learn about the building’s energy-efficient upgrades, such as surface-level parking with a solar canopy, aligning with modern sustainability standards.

Tuesday, May 13
5:30 p.m.
1141 N. Robinson Avenue, OKC

Cost:
OCFA Members: $5
Nonmember Guests: $15

REGISTER HERE

Boyett Petroleum Tour

Join us for a tour of Boyett Petroleum on Tuesday, April 29th led by TAP Architecture.

Boyett Petroleum's new Oklahoma Headquarters joins a 1920s brick warehouse and a 1940s Quonset hut into a one-of-a-kind office space. Once considered a lost cause due to damage from the early 2000s Walnut Bridge restoration, owner Dale Boyett saw their potential. He fell in love with their character and had a dream of restoring them into a showcase for his company by breathing new life into these dilapidated buildings.

The project preserved original materials, including the brick and wood from the 1920s building and the steel structure from the Quonset hut. A new steel skeleton stabilizes the warehouse, supporting a new glass penthouse. The basement was cleared of debris, and a concrete floor was added to house the IT department.

The addition of a new light well in the Quonset hut floods the space with natural illumination and draws visitors through a dramatic transition from Main Street to reception. Removal of bricked-in window openings allows daylight to penetrate deep inside the open plan office and invite expansive views. The new penthouse provides respite from the workplace while commanding panoramic views of Oklahoma City's historic Bricktown.

This visionary act of preservation and conservation of Oklahoma City history is a testimony to what can be done with a lofty vision and appropriate resources. The design exploits the historic character and location of two neighboring buildings and joins them together in a classic gestalt "where the whole is perceived as more than the sum of its parts.

Tuesday, April 29th
5:30 p.m.
Boyett Petroleum
123 E. Main Street, OKC

Cost:
OCFA Members: Free
Nonmember Guests: $15

REGISTER HERE

Bowling for Buildings! Register Today!

Registration includes: Bowling lane for 2 hours, shoes, 1-topping pizza per team, soda and lemonade, and prizes.

OCFA Members:
Team of 4 – $240.00
Individual Registration – $60.00*

Nonmember Guests:
Team of 4 – $300.00
Individual Registration- $75.00*

*We will work to place individual players on a team of 4.

Sponsorships Available:

Strike Sponsor $700
-Sponsor logo appears on all event materials.
-Sponsor recognition on OCFA website event page and social media.
-Sponsor recognition at the Bowling for Buildings event.
-Sponsor receives complimentary team of 4 in the Bowling for Buildings event.

Spare Sponsor $500
-Sponsor recognition on OCFA website event page and social media.
-Sponsor recognition at the Bowling for Buildings event.
-Sponsor receives two complimentary players in the Bowling for Buildings event.

Lane Sponsor $200
-Sponsor logo appears on the bowling lane.
-Sponsor recognition on OCFA website event page and social media.

Registration is limited to 20 teams.

Bowling for Building Rules:
1. Each team will consist of 4 bowlers.
2. Each team will play two games of 10 frames each and report their highest team score (all four player’s scores added together) to the score keeper.
3. If a tie exists, we’ll do a sudden death, one-frame bowl off.
4. Trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.

REGISTER HERE

 

Interested in Serving on the OCFA Board?

If you are interested in serving on the Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture Board, let us know!

Position: Board Member
Term Length: 3 years
Meeting Frequency: Monthly

About Us

The Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture (OCFA) was established in 1999 to promote excellence in the built environment through education, recognition, and preservation. Over the years, OCFA has achieved significant success through its events, programs, and projects, becoming a vital voice for architecture and design in our community.

Role Summary

As a board member of the OCFA, you will play an integral role in shaping the vision and ensuring the success of the organization. This includes participating in governance, providing strategic guidance, fundraising and actively supporting programs that align with the Foundation's mission.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Governance:
    • Participate in setting the Foundation’s strategic direction, policies, and priorities.
    • Ensure the Foundation fulfills its mission and complies with legal and ethical standards.
  2. Engagement and Advocacy:
    • Actively participate in monthly board meetings and special events.
    • Serve as an ambassador for the Foundation, promoting its mission and initiatives to the community.
    • Help to foster relationships with architects, community members, and key stakeholders.
  3. Fundraising and Financial Support:
    • Contribute to and support the Foundation's fundraising efforts, including securing sponsorships and donations.
    • Make an annual personal financial contribution, reflective of personal capacity, to demonstrate commitment to the mission.
  4. Program Support:
    • Support and participate in the Foundation's educational and recognition programs, as well as other special projects.
    • Volunteer for committees or special projects as needed.
  5. Collaboration and Leadership:
    • Work collaboratively with fellow board members and staff to achieve organizational goals.
    • Provide insights, expertise, and leadership in areas relevant to your background and experience.

Qualifications

  • Passion for architecture, education, and the preservation of the built environment.
  • Willingness to dedicate time, expertise, and resources to further the Foundation's mission.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and advocacy skills.
  • Experience in architecture, design, construction, nonprofit work, education, or related fields is a plus.

Time Commitment

Board members are expected to:

  • Attend monthly board meetings (in-person or virtually, as needed).
  • Participate in committee meetings or special projects.
  • Volunteer and participate in Foundation events or initiatives.

Benefits of Serving

  • Make a meaningful impact on the architectural and cultural landscape of Oklahoma City.
  • Expand your professional network by connecting with industry leaders.
  • Have fun collaborating with like-minded advocates.

How to Apply

If you are interested in contributing to the mission of the Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture as a board member, please submit a letter of interest to okcarchitecture@cox.net by Friday, January 24th.

Support OCFA in 2025

Join us in 2025 by joining as a Pillar or Patron Member!

Saturday Stroll: Downtown Guthrie in December

Join us for a tour of Guthrie's historic downtown this December with a guided tour celebrating its remarkable architecture and festive holiday spirit. Starting at the iconic State Capitol Publishing Museum we'll meander through the charming streets lined with Victorian-era buildings, each adorned with seasonal decor, offering a window into the past and showcasing Guthrie’s architectural history.

Our tour guide, Ronald H. Frantz, Jr., FAIA will share stories of Guthrie’s founding, its territorial capitol days, and the enduring architectural styles that have kept its character alive.

The tour concludes with a festive finish at WanderFolk Spirits, where you’re welcome to join us for locally crafted spirits and holiday-inspired beverages. It’s the perfect end to a stroll through history and holiday cheer! (Cost of drinks are the responsibility of tour goers).

Ronald Frantz, Jr., FAIA
The Frantz Alliance

Frantz is a graduate of the Tulane School of Architecture in New Orleans. His work focused on historic preservation, Main Street restoration, and neighborhood revitalization. For 43 years, Frantz worked in many small Oklahoma towns. Much of his work was with the Oklahoma Main Street Center and the OU College of Architecture. Recently, Frantz retired to focus on his small Oklahoma City-based consulting firm, co-founded with his wife, Mary.

 

 

Saturday, December 7
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Downtown Guthrie
Meet at the State Capitol Publishing Museum
301 West Harrison Avenue, Guthrie

Cost:
OCFA Members: Free
Nonmember Guests: $15

REGISTER HERE