The paper describes the dynamic and static analyses and design of a four storey ductile reinforced concrete frame structure isolated from the foundations by elastomeric bearings incorporating lead energy dampers. Results from inelastic, time-history analyses for the isolated and non-isolated structure are compared for several input earthquake motions. The benefits of energy dampers in reducing the isolated building's response (shears, plastic hinge demands and interstorey drifts) are detailed. Differences from conventional ductile design and detailing as well as design recommendations are included.