First National Center, Art Deco skyscraper in Downtown Oklahoma City, United States
First National Center is a 33-story Art Deco skyscraper that rises 456 feet (139 meters) above downtown streets with elaborate marble, granite, and polished aluminum details covering its exterior and interior spaces. The building has been redesigned to hold hotel rooms, apartments, and dining establishments across its renovated levels.
The building was completed in 1931 during a period when Oklahoma City was experiencing strong economic growth and expansion. Its construction took only ten months, which was a remarkable achievement for such a large structure at that time.
The banking hall inside displays four large murals painted by Edgar Spier Cameron that show important moments from Oklahoma City's early growth. These artworks remain visible today and reflect how the city valued its own story during that era.
The building can be accessed from multiple street-level entrances, making it easy to explore both the lobby and surrounding downtown areas. Walking around the structure gives you a good view of its architectural details and the modern developments that surround it.
The structure once featured a rotating aluminum beacon light on its top that helped guide aircraft approaching the city at night. This navigational feature was an uncommon addition to a commercial building and reflected the region's growing connection to air travel.
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