Price Tower’s impending sale marks a new chapter in the history of this iconic building. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the tower stands as a unique example of the architect’s vision and creativity. Its distinctive design, inspired by nature, has captured the imagination of many over the years.
Originally intended to be an apartment complex in New York City, the tower found its home in Bartlesville when Harold C. Price commissioned Wright to design the headquarters for his oil pipeline company. The architect’s innovative approach to the building’s construction, with four elevator shafts serving as the “trunk” and green copper panels resembling leaves, set Price Tower apart from traditional skyscrapers.
Wright’s attention to detail extended to the interior of the building, where he designed furniture that complemented the overall aesthetic. However, recent controversies surrounding the sale of these items have raised concerns about preserving the integrity of the architect’s original vision.
Despite the challenges faced by the current owners, Cynthia and Anthem Blanchard, there is hope that Price Tower will find a new owner who appreciates its historical significance. The upcoming auction presents an opportunity for the building to enter a new phase of its existence, with the potential to continue serving as a hub for art, culture, and innovation.
As the tenants prepare to vacate the building, there is a sense of nostalgia for the community that has called Price Tower home for so many years. The tower’s legacy as a symbol of architectural excellence and ingenuity will endure, regardless of who takes ownership in the future.
For now, the residents of Bartlesville and admirers of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work wait with bated breath to see what the next chapter holds for Price Tower. Will it continue to stand as a testament to the architect’s genius, or will it undergo a transformation that reflects the changing times? Only time will tell.
