A landmark of music history, The Church Studio has been restored to inspire a new generation of creativity while honoring its storied past.
Historic Preservation: Honoring a Musical Legacy
Originally constructed as Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, the building’s evolution into a world-class recording studio in 1972 under Leon Russell solidified its place in music history. Lilly Architects approached the project with reverence, celebrating its storied past while addressing years of neglect.
The original triple-wythe brick masonry was carefully restored, preserving the historic facades that tell the building’s layered story. Mid-century perma-stone, added during a later renovation, was retained and complemented, ensuring the building’s character remained intact. Damaged masonry was meticulously repaired, moisture infiltration was addressed, and all facades were resealed to protect against future wear. These efforts ensured the building’s historical integrity would endure for decades to come.
Thoughtful Expansion: A Dialogue Between Old and New
A modern addition was designed to enhance functionality without detracting from the historic structure. Strategically set back and clad in large-format limestone panels, the new volumes harmonize with the perma-stone of the original building while asserting their contemporary identity.
The addition accommodates essential program elements, including accessible entrances, a gallery, a service elevator, and support spaces. Its positioning and design respect the prominence of the original church while creating a clear narrative between the old and new. Circulation corridors between the historic and new structures provide both physical and visual connections, emphasizing the dialogue between eras.
State-of-the-Art Studio Design
The Church Studio now serves as a world-class recording facility, designed in collaboration with Chad Hailey and Steven Durr Designs. The primary recording studio, control room, and isolation booths were engineered to meet exacting acoustic standards. Advanced isolation techniques ensure that vibrations from the addition do not interfere with studio activities. Every material, from fabric-wrapped acoustic panels to cedar finishes, was selected for both function and homage to the building’s 1970s musical heyday.
Interior Design: Celebrating History and Creativity
The interior design draws inspiration from the building’s dual heritage as a sacred and creative space. A suspended walnut ceiling in the entry gallery echoes the rhythmic forms of the original church while honoring its musical legacy. Historic elements such as cast-stone accents and meticulously replicated windows coexist with materials reminiscent of Leon Russell’s era. These thoughtful touches create a space that is both timeless and inspiring.
The third-floor belfry was reimagined as a meditation room, providing a serene retreat for artists. This space pays homage to the building’s spiritual roots, offering moments of quiet reflection amid the vibrant creative activity.
A Community Hub: Inviting Engagement
Beyond its recording capabilities, The Church Studio serves as a gathering place for Tulsa’s creative community. A private outdoor courtyard with a performance stage and green space fosters events and collaborations, while the landscaped grounds soften the urban edges, creating a welcoming environment for visitors.
A Living Legacy
The Church Studio’s restoration and expansion embody the transformative power of thoughtful architecture. Lilly Architects’ design respects its historic significance while positioning it as a cornerstone of Tulsa’s cultural future. Today, The Church Studio stands not only as a monument to its past but as a beacon for creativity and innovation, amplifying voices old and new in perfect harmony.
