Velocity: Talk of the Town: First National Center Redefines OKCs Epicenter

Following more than four years of work on one of the state’s largest restorations to date, the First National Center in downtown Oklahoma City has re-opened, bringing back a feeling of home for many downtown denizens.

Originally built in 1931, the art-deco and neoclassical designed high-rise stands 32 stories tall on the corner of Park Avenue and Robinson Avenue. Listed on the Historic Register and at one time the largest building in Oklahoma City, the 1.1 million square foot property will now include a hotel, barber shop, bars, restaurants, retail, and residences.

The first-floor concourse includes a series of images detailing the building’s history. “We will respect the building’s legacy as we create a new future; a masterpiece that will be treasured by thousands and admired by millions,“ Brooks is quoted saying as a part of the hallway’s gallery presentation.

Escalators allow excitement to build, as you rise into the Great Hall – the public lobby and main bar of the building. Centered in the room is the bar that pulls inspiration from all-day bars of Europe. However, this building is every bit American. Murals painted in 1931 by Edgar Spier Cameron depicting the Louisiana Transfer, Sunset Trail, and the Oklahoma Land Run greet guests as they proceed through the open space. The paintings along with the grand scale of the room reflect that of a museum, rather than a hotel lobby.

Historical preservation specialists Evergreene Architectural Arts – known for helping restore sites like The Jefferson Memorial – took part in the First National Center’s restoration. Along with NE Development & Partners, ADG, and Flick Mars Architects, the specialists redesigned and re-constructed the property, preserving murals, decorative painted ceilings, stone columns, cast stone, metal finishes, vault doors, safes, and near-century old marble.

Tellers, an Italian eatery, redesigned from the building’s original bank teller spaces, outlines the lobby, serving authentic interpretations from locally sourced ingredients. Stock & Bond, an American steakhouse in the lower-level corridor near the hotel reception area is planned for July, bringing another eventful opening to the building. Michelin-starred Chief Culinary Officer Jonathan Benno will oversee the concepts, along with management and development company, Apicii – known for their establishments throughout New York City, Los Angeles, and more.

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