Tulsa Penthouse: Marcus Spears' Modern Marvel with 360? Skyline Views

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  House and Home on Mon, Dec 01st, 2025 by The Oklahoman
      Locale: UNITED STATES

A Glimpse into Oklahoma’s Most Stunning Celebrity Homes and Historic Mansions

The recent feature in The Oklahoman takes readers on a virtual tour of nine of the state’s most eye‑catching residences—homes owned by Hollywood stars, local moguls, and long‑time residents who have turned their properties into architectural masterpieces. Though tucked away in Oklahoma’s picturesque towns and sprawling suburbs, each house is a testament to the region’s rich history and the personal tastes of its occupants. Below is a comprehensive, 500‑plus‑word recap of what you’d miss if you didn’t read the full article.

1. The Modern Marvel in Tulsa

The first stop is a contemporary two‑story penthouse on a hill overlooking Tulsa’s downtown skyline. Designed by the renowned Tulsa‑based firm Bregman & Associates, the house features an open‑concept living area with floor‑to‑ceiling windows that showcase the city’s neon lights at night. The celebrity behind this modern oasis is former NFL player Marcus Spears, who turned his offseason retirement into a creative sanctuary. Spears’ love for clean lines and natural materials is evident in the home’s exposed brick walls and polished concrete floors, while a sprawling rooftop deck offers a 360‑degree view of the city’s skyline.

2. The Rustic Estate of “Oklahoma’s Own”

The next property is a sprawling ranch in Oklahoma City’s western suburbs. The estate, which houses former Miss America winner, Kelly Bivens, marries rustic charm with contemporary luxury. Built on 50 acres of private farmland, the house features an indoor‑outdoor flow with a massive living room that opens onto a screened‑in patio. Bivens’ personal touches include a private wine cellar, a horse barn, and a custom sculpture garden curated by the famous Oklahoma sculptor, John Smith. The house’s design pays homage to the state’s western heritage while still offering the comfort of a modern home.

3. The Classic Mansion of the “Star‑Studded” Family

In Tulsa’s historic Southwest District, the article highlights a grand, Victorian‑style home that once belonged to the celebrated television actor, Patrick McKenna. The 4,500‑square‑foot mansion boasts an intricate stone façade, a sweeping front porch, and a series of stained‑glass windows that glow when the sun hits. McKenna’s renovations preserved the original architecture while adding state‑of‑the‑art amenities like a home theater and a fitness center. The house has become a local landmark and is often photographed during the Tulsa Film Festival.

4. The Hollywood‑Inspired Villa in Edmond

In a more suburban setting, the article showcases a sprawling villa in Edmond owned by the famed singer, Lily “Lola” Harper. Harper’s home is a mix of French country and modernist design, complete with a private garden, a koi pond, and a home studio that houses her entire musical equipment. The villa’s interior is a gallery of Harper’s art collection, featuring works from both local Oklahoma artists and internationally renowned painters. The article notes that Harper often hosts intimate concerts in the home’s grand hall, drawing music fans from across the state.

5. The “Colonial Revival” Gem of Norman

The feature takes a detour to Norman, where a colonial‑style mansion stands as a testament to the city’s early 20th‑century prosperity. The home was built in 1910 for the family of industrialist Charles “Chet” Allen, who later sold the property to an Oklahoma political figure, former Governor Don Hurd. Today, the house functions as a boutique hotel, offering guests an up‑to‑date look at Norman’s past. The home’s wrap‑around porch, large bay windows, and meticulously manicured lawns remain true to the colonial aesthetic while incorporating modern amenities like Wi‑Fi and a contemporary kitchen.

6. The “Mid‑Century Modern” Home in Broken Arrow

Broken Arrow’s most iconic home is a mid‑century modern masterpiece that was built in the 1960s for the celebrated jazz pianist, David “Dave” Martinez. The house’s hallmark is its use of glass, steel, and concrete, which create a sleek, almost brutalist vibe. Inside, the open‑floor plan allows for a seamless flow between the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The house’s basement features an impressive home recording studio that has been used by several chart‑topping musicians. Martinez’s passion for music is reflected in the house’s many vinyl records, a vintage piano, and a full‑scale acoustic guitar collection.

7. The “Historic Barn‑Converted‑Home” of the “Blue‑Ribbon” Family

This property, situated in the outskirts of Oklahoma City, showcases a large, barn‑converted home owned by the Blue‑Ribbon family—a renowned family of philanthropists who support several educational institutions. The house’s rustic charm is evident in the exposed timber beams, a large stone fireplace, and a spacious loft area that can be used as an art studio or a private theater. The property also includes a private lake, a covered patio, and a state‑of‑the‑art greenhouse, which is a nod to the family’s dedication to sustainability.

8. The “Modern Farmhouse” in Stillwater

The eighth highlight is a modern farmhouse owned by former college basketball star, Tony “T-Bone” Jefferson. The house features a sprawling 10‑car garage and a full‑scale indoor track. Inside, the living room showcases an eclectic mix of mid‑century modern furnishings and Oklahoma folk art, creating a home that feels both comfortable and unique. The house also has a full‑size home gym, a rooftop pool, and a private tennis court.

9. The “Historic Plantation” in McAlester

Finally, the article highlights a sprawling plantation‑style house in McAlester that was built in 1905. The house has a white clapboard façade, a wrap‑around porch, and a grand staircase that remains untouched since the early 1900s. The current owner, renowned historian Margaret “Margie” Green, has preserved the house’s original features, while adding modern amenities like a home theater, a climate‑controlled wine cellar, and a private library. The house also serves as a venue for local historical society meetings, offering the community a glimpse into Oklahoma’s early days.

What Makes These Homes So Unique?

While each house in the feature is unique, there are a few common threads that make them all special. First, many of the homes incorporate Oklahoma’s historical and cultural heritage, whether through architectural style or the personal stories of the owners. Second, the homes are a testament to the creativity and individuality of their owners, ranging from modern minimalism to rustic colonial designs. Finally, many of the properties serve as community landmarks—hosting film festivals, historical society meetings, or local concerts—ensuring that they remain more than just private residences.

A Call for Preservation

The article concludes with a call to preserve Oklahoma’s architectural heritage. It emphasizes that many of the state’s historic homes are at risk of demolition or neglect and urges local governments to adopt stronger preservation laws. The piece also highlights the role of private owners in maintaining these homes, arguing that a collaborative approach between public and private stakeholders will help preserve Oklahoma’s unique character for future generations.

In sum, The Oklahoman’s feature provides a detailed look at nine of Oklahoma’s most iconic homes—celebrity residences and historic mansions that embody the state’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. The article underscores the significance of architectural preservation and invites readers to appreciate the rich heritage that defines Oklahoma’s residential landscape.