Robinson Renaissance redevelopment brings new life to historic downtown landmark

One of downtown Oklahoma City's historic landmarks is entering a new chapter as Gardner Tanenbaum transforms Robinson Renaissance into a mixed-use development featuring 106 luxury apartments while preserving the building's nearly century-old history. 

Developers, city leaders and community members gathered Oct. 28 for a preview of the redevelopment, celebrating both the building's future and its significant place in Oklahoma City's history. 

Originally constructed in 1927, the 12-story building at Robinson and Park avenues is undergoing an approximately $50 million renovation that will convert much of its former office space into residential units. The apartments are expected to open in 2027, coinciding with the building's 100th anniversary. 

"This isn't your typical real estate project," said Richard "Dick" Tanenbaum, founder of Gardner Tanenbaum. "This building has stood here for nearly a hundred years." 

The redevelopment will feature one- and two-bedroom apartments while maintaining commercial and retail space on the lower floors. Planned amenities include a fitness center, resident lounges, coworking areas, concierge services and a golf simulator. 

Gardner Tanenbaum purchased the property in 2024 for $10.25 million. The redevelopment is supported in part by $6 million in tax increment financing assistance from the city. 

The project adds to Gardner Tanenbaum's portfolio of downtown residential conversions, including The Harlow, The Montgomery and Park Harvey, as Oklahoma City continues to expand housing options in its urban core. 

Preserving a century of history 

Originally known as the Perrine Building, the property later became the Cravens Building before receiving its current name following a major renovation in the 1980s that added its distinctive glass atrium. 

During the preview event, Mayor David Holt reflected on the building's place in Oklahoma City's development and the importance of preserving structures that connect the city to its past. 

"There aren't a lot of 99-year-old buildings in Oklahoma City, but we happen to be standing in one," Holt said. 

Holt highlighted Robinson Avenue's role as a corridor connecting several downtown landmarks, including the Oklahoma City National Memorial, First National Center, Paycom Center and Scissortail Park. He also acknowledged the loss of many historic buildings during urban renewal efforts in the 1960s and 1970s. 

The building's history extends beyond its architecture. 

Its basement once housed Anna Maude's Cafeteria, a popular downtown restaurant that refused to serve Black customers during segregation. 

In 1960, civil rights leader Clara Luper and members of the NAACP Youth Council began demonstrations against the cafeteria's discriminatory practices. The protests were part of Oklahoma City's broader sit-in movement, which began in 1958. 

On Jan. 14, 1961, Luper and eight other demonstrators were arrested during a protest at the building. Demonstrations continued until the cafeteria began serving Black customers in 1963. 

"This is one of the few examples left where you can actually still walk in the building that housed one of those historic movements," Holt said. 

Recognizing Clara Luper's legacy 

The redevelopment preview also honored the people who helped change the building's history. 

Marilyn Luper Hildreth, daughter of Clara Luper and a participant in the civil rights movement, joined the celebration alongside other original sit-in participants and members of the Clara Luper Legacy Committee. 

Hildreth reflected on growing up in segregated Oklahoma City, recalling restrictions on visiting public attractions, using facilities and shopping in downtown stores. 

She spoke about the young people who endured mistreatment and faced arrest while peacefully protesting discrimination, emphasizing that their work continues to influence the community today. 

"We didn't give up," Hildreth said. "And to this day, we still fight against injustice." 

During the event, Tanenbaum announced a $50,000 donation to the Freedom Center of Oklahoma City to support efforts to preserve and share the history of the city's civil rights movement. 

Tanenbaum also presented Hildreth with a ceremonial key to Robinson Renaissance, recognizing her family's connection to the building and the contributions of the demonstrators who fought to make it accessible to everyone. 

Hildreth shows off the ceremonial key gifted to her by Gardner Tanenbaum

"There was a time when your mother and other Black Oklahomans were denied service right here in this building," Tanenbaum said. "Clara Luper and those courageous young people helped change that." 

The donation and recognition reflect the company's commitment to ensuring the building's history remains part of its identity as it transitions into a residential community. 

"We want your mother's legacy to remain an important part of the Robinson story," Tanenbaum said. 

A new chapter for downtown 

Beyond preserving its history, the redevelopment represents another investment in downtown Oklahoma City's continued growth. 

Converting former office space into housing will bring additional residents within walking distance of downtown businesses, entertainment venues and employment centers. 

Tanenbaum credited the city's use of tax increment financing as an important factor in making the project possible, emphasizing how historic preservation and redevelopment can encourage additional investment. 

As Robinson Renaissance approaches its centennial, the project aims to bring new activity to a building that has served Oklahoma City for generations. 

"That's what the Robinson represents to me, taking a building with nearly a century of history and giving it a new purpose without forgetting from whence we came," Tanenbaum said.