Project Overview
The First National Center, a prominent skyscraper and historical landmark in Oklahoma City, underwent a transformative restoration to reclaim its historic grandeur.
Originally constructed in the 1930s, this architectural treasure now serves as a mixed-use development that includes a luxury hotel, residential apartments, restaurants, retail spaces, and entertainment venues. The building, with its 32-story design reminiscent of New York City’s Empire State Building, stands as a testament to Oklahoma’s rich history and regional connection.
Natare’s Contribution
To enhance the residential amenities, Natare designed and installed a custom stainless steel elevated pool on the 14th floor as part of its residential amenities, along with a shop-built surge trough. This unique pool design included:
- Dimensions: 27.67′ x 15.67′
- Structure: Stick-built stainless steel construction
- Design Features: An infinity wall with a tile finish, complemented by a Medium Gray GPM™ Polymer Grating for the infinity trough
Building’s Significance
The integration of this pool complements the building’s restoration, offering residents a serene and modern retreat within an iconic setting. The careful blending of contemporary elements like the stainless steel pool with the building’s historic art deco architecture demonstrates a meticulous attention to detail.
The First National Center restoration not only preserves Oklahoma City’s architectural legacy but also reimagines it as a vibrant hub for living, leisure, and culture.
We are proud to have contributed to the restoration of this iconic landmark.
Solutions Used for First National Center
Elevated Pool System: The elevated pool fabricated for the First National Center is considered a Stick Built Construction System, meaning it was built entirely on-site. Stick Built Construction consists of pre-engineered parts and pieces that are delivered on-site and can typical fit in a freight elevated. While time on-site is greatest with this construction method, it was chosen due to limited accessibility the team had.
Surge Trough: The First National Center pool does not utilize a perimeter recirculation system, therefore a combination infinity/surge trough was fabricated to catch the spillover water from the infinity edge. This was to aid in the overall operation of the pool and save space.
GPM™ Polymer Grating: The top of the infinity/surge trough is flush with the deck, making it imperative that the surface is not only attractive, but safe and slip-resistant.
