New Development

Rise of Hudson Yards: From Urban Oasis to Office Epicenter (The New York Times)

By Columbus International,24 April 2024

In March 2019, on the west side of Manhattan, 13,000 people flocked to the Hudson River to witness the unveiling of Hudson Yards, the largest private real estate venture in U.S. history. However, just a year later, the vibrant energy of that opening seemed a distant memory as the new construction lay silent amidst the pandemic.

The once lively corridor of luxury skyscrapers and high-end commercial spaces along the Hudson River had been subdued by closures and urban vacancies. With an extraordinary investment of approximately $30 billion, the ambitious neighborhood appeared to teeter on the brink of failure. Yet, five years later, Hudson Yards not only persevered its initial spirit but emerged as a beacon of resilience, becoming, according to The New York Times, the most sought-after workplace in New York City.

Amidst a shift in remote and hybrid work models, the neighborhood’s glass and steel towers have become magnets for some of the world’s most esteemed companies – BlackRock, Pfizer, Ernst & Young – willing to pay astronomical sums for prime real estate and locations. A remarkable resurgence that silenced even the critics who once looked suspiciously upon the Hudson Yards project, deeming it a soulless enclave catering solely to the wealthy elite. While the office sector thrives, other components of the project, particularly luxury residential buildings and a large shopping center, have struggled to take off. This divergence underscores the growing gap between the fortunes of elite office towers like those around Grand Central Terminal and the broader challenges facing Manhattan’s real estate landscape.

Across Manhattan, the office vacancy rate has reached approximately 18%, nearing record levels with no immediate signs of improvement. However, in Hudson Yards, vacancy rates remain below 10%, with several buildings boasting full occupancy. Rental prices have soared, with some spaces commanding nearly triple the city average. The resurgence of pedestrian traffic, especially at the neighborhood’s shopping center, signals a promising recovery, with companies reporting attendance rates similar to pre-pandemic levels. In particular, employee presence exceeds 80% on weekdays, in stark contrast to the subdued activity observed in other office buildings across the city. Initially criticized as an unnecessary gift to promoters and developers, the tax incentives provided by the city have proven instrumental in the success of Hudson Yards.

Developers argue that without these incentives, the project would have been at risk. The recent relocation of Cravath, Swaine & Moore, a prestigious law firm, to Two Manhattan West, further solidifies Hudson Yards’ status as a premier business hub. Major corporations cite the allure of modern, expansive office spaces as a primary attraction, with companies like BlackRock consolidating their operations within the neighborhood, setting a new standard in luxury office spaces.

Photo via 15 Hudson Yards

Revitalizing Milan’s Southeast: MCA Unveils €3.5 Billion Milano Santa Giulia Project

By Columbus International,8 April 20248 April 2024

The new urban plan designed by MCA (Mario Cucinella Architects) has been unveiled, marking one of the largest urban regeneration projects in Italy. The central idea is to create a structure resembling a leaf, connecting services, commercial areas, schools, and residences around what aims to become Milan’s third-largest park. Present at the project’s launch were Mayor Giuseppe Sala and Urban Regeneration Assessor Giancarlo Tancredi.

Milano Santa Giulia is set to become a new gateway to the city and a neighborhood featuring residences, services, and retail spaces. It represents one of the major urban revitalization initiatives in Lombardy’s capital, focusing on the Southeast quadrant and the former industrial areas of Montedison. Total estimated investments for the project exceed €3.5 billion. Led by Lendlease, a real estate giant responsible for the area, the project will deliver 3,500 new housing units catering to various market segments, from private residences to student and senior living, to the innovative build-to-rent model. Lendlease will also oversee the development of business, food, and commercial districts. These complexes will be located adjacent to the multifunctional arena of Milano Cortina 2026 and a 260,000 square meter park. The masterplan, signed by MCA – Mario Cucinella Architects, envisions a total development of 1.1 million square meters, with completion targeted for 2032 and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Starting from June 2023, Lendlease, already engaged in the city with the Mind operation, acquired surface and development rights for the entire area, currently managed through the Msg Heartbeat real estate closed-end fund owned by Lendlease Sgr. With this acquisition, the fund becomes the effective promoter of the regeneration of the Northern Area.

Of the total €3.5 billion, €2.7 billion will be invested by the international real estate and urban regeneration group, with additional contributions from other parties, such as the Canadian pension fund PSP Investment, which invested in the Spark Business District. According to Fabrizio Zichichi, executive project director at Lendlease, this investment marks a significant step forward for the city, as highlighted by Mayor Beppe Sala during an event emphasizing the importance of developing Milan’s Southeast quadrant in the coming years. Milano Santa Giulia benefits from its privileged location, with access to Linate Airport, the ring road and highway system, the high-speed FS station at Rogoredo, and metro lines M3 and M4, surrounded by natural areas on the outskirts of the city. The new neighborhood aims to attract over 10 million visitors annually, including residents, students, event spectators at the Arena, athletes, and workers. It will be divided into two main zones, North and South, connected by pedestrian and cycling paths, public transport, and a promenade. The North zone will host commercial spaces and sports and recreational services near the multifunctional Eventim Arena, home to the 2026 Olympic Games.

Residences in the area will focus on the concept of sustainable living. The South zone will feature the Spark Business District, with offices and residences, as well as cultural institutions like the Conservatory of Music and the Spark Food District, dedicated to food and beverage. Manager Zichichi announced the imminent launch of the “Who we are Msg” campaign, which will activate the neighborhood with social, cultural, and sports initiatives, in preparation for the Olympics and beyond.

Image via Lendlease

Real Estate: Elevating Milan’s Skyline, The Majestic A2A Tower Redefining Urban Elegance. Explore Further News

By Columbus International,7 August 2023

An ambitious architectural project is beginning to take shape in the heart of Milan: the creation of the new A2A Tower. In the coming months, or perhaps as early as the upcoming autumn season, construction will commence on this grand structure, set to redefine the appearance of Porta Romana as it rises impressively over 28 floors, reaching a height of 145 meters.

The task of shaping the tower has been entrusted to the architecture firm led by Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel. The design will be a symphony of modernity and elegance: an oval-shaped base, enveloped in glass walls, will embrace a total surface area of 37,000 square meters, including the base spaces. The building will undoubtedly be one of the tallest in the city, and its structure will house a variety of functions. The initial twelve floors, for instance, will transform into office spaces, creating a stimulating and innovative work environment. However, at a height of around 60 meters, around the twentieth floor, a genuine suspended garden will emerge, offering an atmosphere of tranquility and nature that blends with the surrounding urban energy.

This green paradise will be accessible from one of its sides, opening its doors to contemplation and recreation. As one ascends towards the sky, an additional eight floors of office spaces will stand, crowned by a striking “belvedere” that will offer breathtaking views of the city to the citizens of Milan and visitors alike. In numerical terms, it is estimated that the tower could accommodate a working community of approximately 1,500 individuals, all integral parts of the company. Yet, the impact of the A2A Tower goes beyond its work-related function. This architectural gem will transform the surrounding urban landscape, a vertical revolution that will shed new light on the entire neighborhood. Surrounded by an ambiance of water and framed by green spaces, the glass structure will enchant onlookers and give rise to a new landscape identity. The inauguration of this magnificent creation appears to be planned in conjunction with the anticipated event of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

Despite financial details not yet being disclosed, former A2A CEO Luca Valerio Camerano had suggested in June 2019 that the project would find its financial backing, also offering value-added opportunities for shareholders. An important aspect of the new tower’s construction process involves the rationalization of the energy company’s real estate properties. Seven buildings in Milan, including the current headquarters at Porta Vittoria, will be divested, allowing for the concentration of the 1,500 employees within the spectacular new headquarters. The existing locations will remain intact for those directly involved in essential operations, such as Amsa and the immediate intervention of Unareti.

Half-Empty Haven: The Elite’s Luxury Tower in New York Struggles to Fill Up (Wall Street Journal)

By Columbus International,17 July 20239 November 2024

Hudson Yards has always been an ambitious real estate project, spanning approximately 28 acres, located on the west side of Manhattan and developed by the Related Companies. The goal was to transform a windswept railyard into a new luxury destination for the global elite, creating a new residential area with skyscrapers, luxury stores, restaurants, and exclusive services. However, almost a decade after its inception, the project has faced difficulties in achieving this goal. At 35 Hudson Yards, one of the residential towers in the project, approximately 50% of the units remained unsold by the end of June, more than four years after sales began – according to the WSJ.

To stimulate sales, Related has had to reduce prices and offer incentives such as covering taxes and closing costs for buyers. Recorded sales at 35 Hudson Yards show an average price decrease of 30% compared to the initial listed prices. Some units have been sold at discounts of over 40%. Additionally, the project has faced competition from a wide range of luxury condominiums in Manhattan, with greater discounts offered compared to other areas of the city. In contrast, another residential tower in the project, 15 Hudson Yards, initially fared better and is nearly sold out after almost seven years of marketing. Despite efforts to promote the new neighborhood, reception to Hudson Yards has been mixed. While some appreciate the luxury stores, restaurants, and tourist attractions, others describe it as a place lacking authentic personality, characterized by soulless glass skyscrapers.

Furthermore, the proposal to introduce a casino at Hudson Yards has raised concerns among potential buyers, who worry about attracting large crowds and tarnishing the area’s upscale image. Related has responded by stating that if they are fortunate enough to obtain a gaming license, they will create a tasteful world-class resort that enhances the offerings at Hudson Yards. Currently, Related still has over a billion dollars worth of condos to sell at Hudson Yards. Despite the challenges, the company remains optimistic about future sales and has been sending out contracts for many units at 35 Hudson Yards. However, luxury property prices in Manhattan are experiencing a decline in sales, and many buyers are seeking to resell their units at prices lower than their initial purchase, preparing for potential financial losses.