Widgets Magazine
  • Historic Midtown building to be restored

    The Baptist Building – a historic art deco gem in Midtown at 1141 N. Robinson – is set to receive a comprehensive renovation.



    The building was constructed in 1949 as the home for the Oklahoma Baptist Convention, directly south of the First Baptist Church.

    It has beautiful cast stone and aluminum details but has been largely vacant for decades, primarily due to a lack of compliance with the current American Act on Disability (ADA).

    The property, along with an ½ acre parking lot to the east, was purchased in 2022 by Robinson Renewal Partners. They have recently filed plans to restore the structure, make a substantial investment to bring it into ADA compliance, and renovate original spaces such as the lobby, old bookstore, and auditorium.

    Subsequently, interior spaces will be built out within the building as tenants are secured.


    Stuart Hudson of Robinson Renewal told OKCTalk:

    “We are looking forward to restoring 1141 North Robinson to beautiful, class A office space and adjoining parking with a projected open date in early 2025. We are using Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits to ensure the property retains its post-war/Art Deco aesthetic while updating key elements so it functions as a 21st century office space. We hope to attract those who value the building's history and access to the business, cultural, and culinary amenities of Midtown and Downtown OKC.

    We're excited to be working with Redhawk Construction, Anishinabe Design, and Marva Ellard to breathe life back into an architectural landmark.”













    Comments 2 Comments
    1. blwarch's Avatar
      blwarch -
      The first photo of the ornate interior is not of the Baptist building, based on our knowledge of the interior materials, ceiling heights and existing drawings. Just wanted to set the record straight. Great job otherwise and wonderful historic photos of the exterior and bookstore! I have attached a couple of historic photos of the main lobby and auditorium for your use.

      Barrett Williamson

      Attachment 18365
      Attachment 18366
    1. rayvaflav's Avatar
      rayvaflav -
      Quote Originally Posted by blwarch View Post
      The first photo of the ornate interior is not of the Baptist building, based on our knowledge of the interior materials, ceiling heights and existing drawings. Just wanted to set the record straight. Great job otherwise and wonderful historic photos of the exterior and bookstore! I have attached a couple of historic photos of the main lobby and auditorium for your use.

      Barrett Williamson

      Attachment 18365
      Attachment 18366
      Wonderful lobby !
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