Spanning the Will Rogers Turnpike in Vinita, Oklahoma, the Will Rogers Archway—formerly known as the Glass House—has long stood as both a travel stop and a proud symbol of Oklahoma ingenuity. First opened in 1957 as one of the nation’s first highway-spanning service centers, the mid-century glass structure had grown tired after decades of use. Color Works was brought in to help restore its architectural prominence and public perception through a full interior and exterior renovation that respected its history while modernizing it for today’s travelers.

Positioned along a major east–west artery connecting Tulsa to the Missouri border, the Archway serves thousands of drivers each day and remains one of Oklahoma’s most recognizable landmarks. The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority sought to reintroduce the property as both a functioning travel plaza and a destination stop that could celebrate the state’s heritage while offering an updated experience for modern visitors.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and its private partners needed to revitalize this iconic structure while coordinating multiple franchisees—including McDonald’s, Subway, and Kum & Go—each with its own national brand standards. The challenge lay in creating a cohesive environment that honored Will Rogers’ legacy, preserved the architectural integrity of the bridge structure, and stood up to the demands of a 24-hour public facility, all while responsibly managing both public and private funding sources.

Color Works provided comprehensive interior design, exterior design and paint color direction, FF&E, project management, and custom art coordination.
The design honored the building’s distinctive glass geometry while introducing finishes that balanced durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal.

• Porcelain tile was specified throughout for its longevity and easy maintenance.
• Key performance factors such as coefficient of friction and long-term durability were evaluated to ensure the finishes, particularly in high-volume restroom areas, could handle continuous use without compromising beauty.
• A unified interior palette linked the various franchise zones while allowing each brand’s identity to remain clear, creating a consistent experience for travelers moving through the space.

Historic and artistic elements anchored the project in Oklahoma’s cultural story. The Will Rogers statue, once displayed outdoors and damaged over time, was fully restored by a local foundry and relocated indoors as the building’s centerpiece. Above the main atrium, artist Jonathan Hills designed a striking aluminum-tube car sculpture suspended in midair, illuminated at night so it’s visible to drivers passing below—a glowing nod to movement, history, and state pride.

The renovation transformed the Will Rogers Archway into a reinvigorated public landmark that bridges history with modern function.

• The project restored civic pride and renewed the building’s reputation as “Oklahoma’s Front Door.”
• Travelers and franchisees alike responded with overwhelmingly positive feedback, praising the comfort, cleanliness, and design continuity of the updated space.
• Durable material selections and performance-driven finishes ensure the facility remains functional and welcoming for decades to come.

The project stands as a model for how thoughtful design can preserve history while meeting the rigorous standards of high-traffic, multi-stakeholder environments.

Color Works helps public and private owners reimagine iconic spaces for modern use—balancing beauty, history, and longevity.

Start a conversation with Color Works to discover how thoughtful design can preserve heritage while elevating everyday experience.