What is the Designer Showcase?
Every year, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Tulsa selects a unique property to highlight the incredible work of local designers, contractors, and remodelers [1]. For 2026, the Designer Showcase has chosen a truly spectacular piece of Tulsa's architectural history: a 9,000+ square foot estate nestled in the prestigious Forest Hills neighborhood [1].
Located at 2840 S. Victor Ave., this year's showcase home is more than just a canvas for modern design; it is a celebration of mid-century architecture and the pioneering women who shaped it [1].
The Legacy of Mary Caroline Cole
The 2026 Showcase Home was built in 1950 and originally designed by Mary Caroline Cole, Oklahoma's first licensed female architect [1] [2]. Born in Tulsa in 1912, Cole broke barriers in a male-dominated field, graduating with a degree in architecture from Cornell University in 1941 before returning to her home state to leave an indelible mark on its built environment [2].
Working alongside the original owner, Mrs. Seth Hughes, Cole thoughtfully crafted the home around the needs of a growing family [1]. Her design philosophy prioritized both form and function, ensuring that every detail—from generous storage spaces to en-suite bathrooms for each child—was intentional and livable [1].
Mary Caroline Cole (1912–1991), Oklahoma's first licensed woman architect, who designed the 2026 Showcase Home. (Photo via Oklahoma Historical Society)
"Perhaps the most charming reflection of that vision is the 'club room,' a space designed with teenagers in mind where green carpet could be rolled back and the latest hits on the radio turned up. It is a reminder that great design does not just look good, it lives well," notes the Tulsa HBA [1].
Historic Forest Hills: A Neighborhood Rooted in the Oil Boom
The setting for this architectural gem is equally significant. The Forest Hills neighborhood is one of Tulsa's most historic and sought-after enclaves. Developed during the height of Tulsa's reign as the "Oil Capital of the World," the area is renowned for its sprawling estates, mature trees, and diverse architectural styles ranging from Colonial Revival to Mid-Century Modern.
Homes in Forest Hills were built to impress, often featuring custom details, expansive lots, and a sense of grandeur that reflected the immense wealth flowing into the city during the early to mid-20th century. Today, the neighborhood remains a testament to Tulsa's rich heritage, making it the perfect backdrop for the Designer Showcase.
Reimagining a Masterpiece
For the 2026 Showcase, over 20 local designers were challenged to reimagine the home's interior and exterior spaces [1]. The goal was to update colors, textures, and finishes while respecting Cole's original natural flow and historic character [1].
The property features six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and a stunning backyard retreat complete with a winding koi pond, a picturesque gazebo, and a pool nestled among lush greenery [1]. A garage apartment has also been transformed into a fully livable space [1].
The heart of the home—the kitchen—has been expanded as part of the showcase, incorporating what was once a small dining room to create an even more open and inviting space for gathering [1].
Event Details and Ticket Information
The 2026 Tulsa Designer Showcase will be open to the public from May 2 through May 17, 2026 (closed on Tuesdays) [1]. Hours are 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, with extended hours until 7:00 PM on Mondays and Thursdays for "Meet the Designer Nights" [1].
For those eager to get an early look, the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture (TFA) is hosting a special Partnership Preview on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM [3]. This exclusive self-guided tour benefits both the TFA and the Foundation for Tulsa Schools [3].
Whether you are a real estate professional looking for design inspiration, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a lover of Tulsa history, the 2026 Designer Showcase is an event not to be missed. It offers a rare opportunity to step inside a piece of local history and see how modern design can breathe new life into a mid-century masterpiece.
References
[1] Designer Showcase - Tulsa Home Builders Association Events
[2] Cole, Mary Caroline | The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture
[3] TFA PARTNERSHIP PREVIEW: The 2026 Designer Showcase Home - Visit Tulsa
