The Regency:
By (Mike Nations)
If you’ve ever wandered through the northwest quadrant of downtown Oklahoma City, you’ve probably glanced up at a sleek, 24‑story tower that punctuates the skyline at 333 Northwest 5th Street. Known today simply as The Regency, this building has been a fixture of the city’s urban fabric for more than half a century—first as the Regency Tower, then the Oklahoma Continental Apartments, and now a vibrant, mixed‑use residence that blends historic charm with contemporary comforts.
In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into The Regency’s history, architecture, and the amenities that make it a coveted address for downtown dwellers. Whether you’re a prospective renter, a history buff, or simply curious about the evolution of Oklahoma City’s built environment, read on for a comprehensive look at one of the city’s most iconic high‑rises.
A Brief History: From Ground‑Up Vision to Modern Revival
Year Milestone
1964 Groundbreaking – construction begins on what would become the tallest residential tower in OKC at the time.
1966 Structural completion – the 24‑story skeleton rises to a height of 238 ft.
1967 Grand opening – the building opens its doors as the Regency Tower, offering 274 apartments across a range of floor plans.
1990s–2000s Rebranded as the Oklahoma Continental Apartments, reflecting a shift in marketing focus toward the city’s growing downtown revival.
2020s Renovations and re‑branding to The Regency, emphasizing upscale amenities, modern interiors, and a renewed community vibe.
The Regency’s construction coincided with a period of rapid expansion for Oklahoma City. The 1960s saw the downtown core transition from a purely commercial hub to a mixed‑use district where people wanted to live, work, and play in the same neighborhood. As one of the earliest high‑rise residential towers, The Regency helped set the tone for that evolution.
Architectural Highlights: Form Meets Function
Height & Massing – At 238 feet, the tower’s sleek, rectangular form rises cleanly above the surrounding streetscape. Its modest setback at the 5th floor creates a “pedestal” that houses shared amenities and parking—a design choice common in mid‑century high‑rise construction.
Facade Materials – The original curtain wall featured a combination of aluminum cladding and tinted glass, lending a “cool‑gray” aesthetic that still feels contemporary today. Recent updates have added subtle stone veneer accents to the pedestal, giving the base a more grounded, premium look.
Balconies & Views – Most residential units enjoy private outdoor balconies that frame sweeping views of the downtown skyline, the Oklahoma River, and—on clear days— even the distant Wichita Mountains. Studios without balconies compensate with floor‑to‑ceiling windows that flood interiors with natural light.
Inside the Pedestal: A Self‑Contained Community Hub
While the tower’s soaring heights capture the eye, the real heart of The Regency lies below. The first five floors are a bustling micro‑city that supports everyday life, work, and recreation.
Parking – Floors B (Basement) & 1‑3
Four‑level garage with a mix of single and tandem spaces, ideal for residents and their guests.
Secure entry systems and ample lighting make for a stress‑free parking experience.
Ground‑Floor Lobby & Retail – Floor 1
Concierge desk and leasing office greet visitors, offering a warm, professional first impression.
Two retail spaces currently host Tower Deli, a beloved sandwich shop serving up fresh, quick bites for residents and passersby. The second retail spot sits vacant after the former Health Nut Café, leaving room for future culinary creativity.
Club House & Wellness – Floor 4
Club House: Fully equipped kitchen, lounge area, flat‑screen TV, and a pool table—perfect for casual gatherings or game nights.
Outdoor Pool: A sparkling, heated pool offers a refreshing retreat during Oklahoma’s hot summers and a relaxing soak in winter thanks to a heated cover.
Fitness Center: State‑of‑the‑art cardio and strength equipment, plus a yoga corner for mindful movement.
Leasable Offices: Small, private office spaces are available for entrepreneurs seeking a downtown address without the hassle of a separate lease.
Service Core – Floor 5
Mail Room: Secure parcel lockers and a staffed desk make package retrieval a breeze.
Laundry Room: Modern, energy‑efficient washers and dryers for residents who prefer on‑site laundry.
Maintenance Offices: A dedicated team ensures that any building issues are addressed promptly, keeping the property in top condition.
Residential Floors: From Studios to Family‑Size Layouts
Floor Range Unit Types Key Features
6‑24 Studios, 1‑BR, 2‑BR, 3‑BR Private balconies (except some studios), modern finishes, large windows, ample storage.
Studio Compact, efficient layout – ideal for single professionals or students. Open‑concept living space, full kitchen, bathroom, optional balcony.
1‑Bedroom Cozy yet spacious, perfect for couples. Separate bedroom, upgraded appliances, balcony with city views.
2‑Bedroom Flexible floor plans for small families or roommates. Two private bedrooms, larger living area, balcony access from both bedrooms in select units.
3‑Bedroom Premium family‑friendly layouts. Three distinct bedrooms, generous square footage, large balcony spanning the length of the unit.
All units have been refreshed with new cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless‑steel appliances, and updated lighting. Residents also enjoy high‑speed internet infrastructure and central HVAC for efficient climate control year‑round.
Location, Location, Location
The Regency’s address places it steps away from the best that downtown Oklahoma City has to offer:
Cultural Attractions: Proximity to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and the Myriad Botanical Gardens.
Dining & Nightlife: A short walk brings you to the bustling Bricktown Entertainment District, where craft breweries, rooftop bars, and eclectic eateries line the riverfront.
Transit: Easy access to OC Transpo bus routes, the Oklahoma City Streetcar, and major highways (I‑40, I‑35).
Green Spaces: The Oklahoma River trails are perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply unwinding after a long day.
Why The Regency Stands Out
Historic Prestige – Living in a building that helped shape downtown’s residential landscape adds a sense of legacy and pride.
All‑In‑One Convenience – From parking and a concierge to a pool, gym, and on‑site offices, residents rarely need to leave the premises for daily needs.
Varied Floor Plans – Whether you’re a studio‑loving professional or a family seeking three bedrooms, The Regency offers a layout that fits your lifestyle.
Walkability – The “15‑minute city” ideal is realized here: groceries, coffee, fitness, and entertainment are all within a short stroll.
Modern Renovations – Recent upgrades blend the building’s mid‑century DNA with contemporary design standards, ensuring comfort without sacrificing character.
Final Thoughts
The Regency isn’t just a high‑rise; it’s a living piece of Oklahoma City’s history, re‑imagined for today’s urban dweller. Its blend of classic architectural lines, thoughtfully curated amenities, and unbeatable downtown location make it a standout choice for anyone looking to call the heart of OKC home.
If you’re curious about available units, upcoming open houses, or simply want to tour the lobby and club house, contact the leasing office at the ground floor or check out the building’s dedicated website.
Welcome to The Regency—where the past meets the present, and every balcony offers a view of the future.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below: Have you lived or visited The Regency? What’s your favorite downtown spot within walking distance?
Nestled in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, the Regency Tower Apartments offer a sleek blend of modern convenience and urban charm that makes city living feel effortless. Each loft‑style residence boasts floor‑to‑ceiling windows that flood the open‑plan layouts with natural light, while high‑end finishes—stainless‑steel appliances, quartz countertops, and hardwood flooring—provide a polished, move‑in‑ready feel. Residents enjoy a suite of on‑site amenities designed to complement a busy lifestyle: a state‑of‑the‑art fitness center, a rooftop terrace with panoramic skyline views and a fire‑pit lounge, a pet‑friendly courtyard, and a secure, underground parking garage.
Beyond the building’s walls, the Regency Tower places you steps away from the city’s cultural pulse. A short stroll leads to Bricktown’s vibrant nightlife, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and the bustling Riverwalk, while a quick drive connects you to major employers, top‑rated schools, and the expansive Myriad Botanical Gardens. With 24‑hour concierge service, controlled‑access entry, and high‑speed internet ready in every unit, the Regency Tower not only simplifies everyday logistics but also cultivates a sense of community through regular resident events and shared spaces. For those seeking a contemporary, hassle‑free urban haven, living at the Regency Tower Apartments feels like having the city’s best at your doorstep.
Comments