Talk of the town: First National Center redefines OKC’s 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 National Center is one of the most historic and iconic buildings in this region of the country,” First National Center Partner Gary Brooks said. “Locals and guests alike will be awed every time they enter the building. There are so many experiences to be had within our walls, from the Great Hall, the multiple food and beverage outlets, private dining rooms, living accommodations, and a hotel guest experience that will exceed most people’s expectations.”

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.

Left, Tellers restaurant (Photo by Gavin Peters). Right, 1948 First National Center bank teller spaces (Photo provided by Oklahoma Historical Society).

Through the Robinson Avenue entrance, on the ground floor just before the escalators, guests can find The National, a Marriot Autograph Collection Hotel reception area, to the right, or The Library of Distilled Spirits – set to officially open in May – slightly left of the stairway. The library is a speakeasy, located in the basement and former bank vault, with two bars and hundreds of drinks to choose from. Brooks has spoken highly of the speakeasy, claiming that the social club is where people will really want to come to enjoy themselves.

Back above ground, The National hotel incorporates 8 floors, with 146 guest rooms – including, over a dozen suites – and is also designed to pay tribute to the building’s original design elements.

“The National isn’t just a hotel, it’s an experience,” General Manager Jason Gifford said, “The intent was for our guests to ‘feel’ 1931 when they entered the First National Center. From the entrance doors to the lobby, to the great hall, you’re walking into a 1931 art-deco masterpiece revitalized to make it relevant, popular, and important again. When you enter the hotel rooms it’s 2022 sophistication and flair. The modern and timeless design is fun and relaxing, while still giving a nod to the building’s art deco flavor with unique carpet designs and some fun art to pair.”

The hotel includes more than enough event space – with four rooms, combining for nearly 2,500 square feet – as well as a variety of amenities, including a private fitness center, valet parking, and dry cleaning: along with the retail shops and restaurants of the building’s lower level.  

Lucchese, an upscale American boot-making company, will be one of the first to occupy retail space in the building’s east end. The brand, founded in San Antonio by Italian immigrant Salvatore Lucchese, became famous for their quality footwear through the 1900s. The bootmaker attracted customers like singer and actor Bing Crosby; Academy Award-Winning actor Gregory Peck; actor, singer, and businessman Jimmy Dean; and perhaps the most notable, former United States President Lyndon B. Johnson. More recently the brand became the official boot of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders – and now, resident retail shop of Oklahoma City’s First National Center.

The building’s barber shop is located around the corner from the bootmaker, across from Stock & Bond in the southwest corridor. The shop, like much of the building, provides a contemporary twist to the traditional. The over-sized mirrors and black and burgundy chairs contrast the eccentric floor designs in a way that promises to catch the interest of each passerby. Retail spaces line the rest of the hallways, waiting for the next business to arrive.

For those who never want to leave, The First Residences sit atop of the tower, offering an experience few and far between in Oklahoma City.

“The First Residences at First National offer a unique living experience for those looking to revel in historical magnificence with a touch of approachable luxury,” Executive Director of The First Residences Joshua Carmody said. “With 193 spacious dwelling configurations, including studio, one, two & three-bedroom apartment homes, and penthouse floor plans that combine stylish and modern interiors, our views and amenities such as our state-of-the-art fitness center, rooftop deck with a heated infinity pool & cabanas, and world-class design offer a new & upgraded way for Oklahoma City residents to live.”

Residents can access their homes through an elevator system, separate from the rest of the building’s elevators, with a leasing office and clubhouse waiting on the 14th floor. A private concierge office is located off Park Avenue, with attendants to assist residents, day and night. Along with the pool and fitness centers, residents also have access to rooftop dog parks and lounge areas – with a dog grooming station directly inside the door.

The First Residences at First National clubhouse (Photo by Gavin Peters).

The residences are within walking distance of most things downtown, like the Paycom Center or Scissortail Park, but are ideally situated for the daily commuter, as well. Both Interstate 235 and Interstate 40 can be reached within minutes, making for quick connection to the outskirts of the city. At home, residents have access to a 14-story parking garage that allows vehicles to use a ramping system rather than looping around in circles. The parking space is located on the east side of the project – constructed where office buildings once were. The Broadway Avenue median was cut during demolition, to allow vehicles to enter the garage while driving either direction – rather than only being able to enter while driving south, as the street was previously set up.

Whether you’re nearby, or need to drive downtown, the First National Center is worth the trip. The building brings a refined purpose to Oklahoma City’s epicenter, and preserves significant parts of the city’s history; while bringing an outside approach to an outdated environment. With the grand scale of the public spaces, like the Great Hall, and the intricate details of each concept inside, the building provides a bit of a feeling of Manhattan, right here in the middle of America.