Have you ever wondered which buildings in Arkansas are the tallest and what differentiates them from one another? Arkansas is a state full of architectural wonders in addition to its natural wonders.
We’ll give you a tour of the top 5 tallest structures in Arkansas in this post and explain how they represent the state’s history, culture, and economy.
These buildings are more than simply structures; they are landmarks that tell a story. Examples of these are the Simmons Tower in Little Rock, which has been the state’s tallest building since 1986, and One Union National Plaza, which is situated across the street from the Arkansas State Capitol.
Come along as we examine the five highest structures in Arkansas and learn about their distinctive attributes, styles, and meanings.
1. Simmons Tower (166 m)
Simmons Tower, situated in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas, holds the distinction of being the state’s tallest building since 1986. This 40-story structure, designed by Harwood K. Smith & Partners, serves as a commercial hub, accommodating offices, retail establishments, and restaurants.
Constructed at a cost of $72 million, the tower is named after Simmons Bank, the institution that not only has its headquarters within the building but also secured the naming rights in 2014.
A notable feature of the tower is its exterior lighting system, capable of changing colors to mark national holidays and special events.
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2. Regions Center (138 m)
Regions Center, formerly known as the First National Bank Building, stands as the second-tallest structure in Arkansas and held the title of the tallest building in Little Rock from 1975 to 1986.
Situated on West Capitol Avenue, within the core of the city’s financial district, this 30-story building encompasses office spaces, retail establishments, and restaurants.
Crafted by Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson Architects, it marked a milestone as the inaugural structure in Arkansas to embrace a glass curtain wall system. Currently under the ownership of Regions Bank since 2004, the building reflects the institution’s identity through the acquired naming rights.
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3. Bank of America Plaza (114 m)
Bank of America Plaza, also referred to as the Worthen Bank Building, holds the position of the third-tallest structure in Arkansas and was the tallest building in Little Rock from 1970 to 1975.
Located on Main Street in close proximity to the Arkansas River, this 23-story building primarily functions as office space for a diverse range of businesses and organizations.
Constructed in 1970, it marked a significant milestone as the first building in Arkansas to utilize a precast concrete panel system. Presently, Bank of America occupies the building, having acquired the naming rights in 1992.
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4. Stephens Building (111 m)
The Stephens Building, alternatively referred to as the Rogers Office Building, stands as the fourth tallest structure in Arkansas and ranks among the state’s most contemporary-looking edifices.
Situated on Center Street in downtown Little Rock, this 25-story building serves various commercial functions, including offices, retail establishments, and restaurants.
Erected in 1985, the structure follows the architectural style of Modernism. It bears the name Stephens Inc., paying homage to the financial services firm headquartered within the building.
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5. One Union National Plaza (101 m)
One Union National Plaza, also called Union Plaza Building, stands as Arkansas’s fifth-tallest structure and held the title of Little Rock’s tallest edifice from 1968 to 1970.
Situated on Capitol Avenue, directly opposite the Arkansas State Capitol, this 22-story tower boasts class A commercial status, indicative of its superior standards and amenities.
Constructed in 1968, it pioneered the use of a steel frame system in Arkansas. Presently, One Union National Bank leases the majority of the building’s space, serving as its primary tenant.
To Conclude
From the majestic One Union National Plaza to the modern elegance of the Stephens Building, these structures illustrate Arkansas’s evolution from its early financial roots to its contemporary, diversified economy. They serve as tributes to human creativity and aspiration, shaping the skylines of major cities like Little Rock.
Although their heights may initially captivate us, it’s the narratives they convey that truly leave a lasting impression. These buildings encapsulate the essence of Arkansas, continuously aspiring to new heights while remaining firmly connected to its vibrant history.
So, the next time you behold these architectural wonders, bear in mind that they signify more than just steel and glass. They are symbols of advancement, ambition, and the ever-changing identity of the remarkable state of Arkansas.
