Once a Model T dealership, the Universal Ford Building now serves as a vibrant entrepreneurial hub in downtown Tulsa.
Retrofit Magazine covered the remarkable transformation of Tulsa’s historic Universal Ford Building into 36 Degrees North, a thriving co-working space designed to support entrepreneurs and small businesses. Originally built in 1917 as a Model T dealership, the building now stands as a testament to Tulsa’s evolving business landscape and rich architectural heritage.
Lilly Architects designed and coordinated the rehabilitation of the Universal Ford Building. Their design approach balanced preserving the structure’s historic integrity with modern functionality, ensuring it met the needs of today’s entrepreneurs. Through collaboration with the George Kaiser Family Foundation and other key stakeholders, the project shifted from its original intent as a residential development to a dynamic entrepreneurial hub.
36 Degrees North offers 48 desks, seven private offices, and flexible co-working memberships, fostering a community where startups can collaborate and grow. Additionally, the space hosts events, workshops, and networking opportunities, further solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Tulsa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Read more about the original project here: Retrofit Magazine Article