Curtis + Ginsberg Architects Signs New Lease at One Battery Park Plaza
In a notable development for Lower Manhattan's commercial real estate market, Rudin has announced that Curtis + Ginsberg Architects has signed a 12,602-square-foot lease at One Battery Park Plaza. The award-winning New York City-based architectural firm will relocate its headquarters to the 27th floor of the iconic 35-story office tower as part of an 11-year lease agreement. The move is expected to take place in the third quarter of 2023, marking a significant new chapter for both the firm and the building.
Why Curtis + Ginsberg Architects Is Upgrading Its Manhattan Headquarters
Curtis + Ginsberg Architects is currently housed in a 10,307-square-foot office at 55 Broad Street, also in Lower Manhattan. The firm's move to One Battery Park Plaza represents not just a change of address, but a meaningful expansion — gaining nearly 2,300 additional square feet of prime office space. This upgraded footprint is designed to better support the firm's collaborative culture and its ongoing commitment to delivering designs that enrich communities.
Managing Partner R. Darby Curtis AIA expressed enthusiasm about the transition: "We are excited to stay in Lower Manhattan and look forward to expanding our space at One Battery Park Plaza, which will enhance our collaborative work environment and mission of providing designs that enhance communities." The sentiment underscores a broader trend of established firms doubling down on Lower Manhattan as a hub for creative, design-driven businesses.
The Story Behind 55 Broad Street's Transformation
The timing of Curtis + Ginsberg's relocation is closely tied to a major shift happening at their current address. Rudin recently finalized the sale of 55 Broad Street to Silverstein Properties and Metro Loft Management, two of New York City's most prolific real estate developers. The new owners plan to convert the building into 571 residential units, reflecting the growing momentum of office-to-residential conversion projects across Manhattan. Rudin will retain an equity stake in the redevelopment project, maintaining a continued interest in the property's future success.
This chain of events illustrates how the post-pandemic real estate market is reshaping Lower Manhattan's urban fabric — with some office buildings being repurposed into much-needed housing while premium towers like One Battery Park Plaza continue to attract top-tier tenants.
One Battery Park Plaza: A Legacy of Excellence in Lower Manhattan
One Battery Park Plaza has long been one of Lower Manhattan's most distinguished office addresses. Originally constructed by the Rudin family in 1971, the 870,000-square-foot tower was designed by the renowned architectural firm Emery Roth & Sons. Over the decades, the building has undergone thoughtful renovations, including a beautifully updated Italian marble lobby designed by Specter DeSouza Architects, which blends timeless elegance with modern functionality.
The building's floor plates range from 27,000 to 29,000 square feet, offering tenants generous, flexible layouts that can be customized to support a wide variety of work styles. Perhaps most striking are the sweeping views available from the tower's upper floors, taking in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governors Island, and the lush greenery of Battery Park. For a design-focused firm like Curtis + Ginsberg, this inspiring backdrop is more than just an aesthetic bonus — it is an environment that fuels creativity and reflects the firm's values.
Sustainability and Smart Building Technology at One Battery Park Plaza
Beyond its storied history and iconic views, One Battery Park Plaza stands out for its commitment to health, wellness, and cutting-edge building technology — values that align closely with Curtis + Ginsberg's own emphasis on sustainable design.
- WELL Health-Safety Rating: The building has achieved the WELL Health-Safety Rating, a globally recognized certification that signals a commitment to the health and well-being of everyone who works within the building.
- WiredScore Platinum Certification: One Battery Park Plaza holds WiredScore Platinum certification, placing it among the most digitally connected office buildings in New York City. This ensures tenants benefit from reliable, fast, and resilient internet and telecommunications infrastructure.
- Nantum Building Operating System: The tower utilizes Nantum, described as the world's most advanced building operating system. This AI-powered platform optimizes energy usage, improves operational efficiency, and enhances the overall tenant experience.
For a firm that has built its reputation on award-winning, sustainable architectural design, the decision to base its operations in a building that leads the way in environmental and technological performance is a natural and strategic fit.
Rudin's Long-Term Approach to Tenant Relationships
The lease announcement highlights Rudin's distinctive philosophy when it comes to managing its portfolio of properties. Rather than viewing tenants as transactional relationships, Rudin has consistently focused on building long-term partnerships — a quality that has earned it a loyal base of tenants across its New York City holdings.
Michael Rudin, Executive Vice President of Rudin, spoke to this point directly: "We are pleased to be able to accommodate Curtis & Ginsberg's move to One Battery Park Plaza as 55 Broad Street embarks on its next chapter. Their decision to remain within our portfolio is indicative of Rudin's history of creating long-term relationships with our tenants." This retention speaks volumes about the quality of service and the value Rudin consistently delivers to its tenants, even as the broader real estate market navigates significant change.
What This Move Means for Lower Manhattan's Commercial Real Estate Market
The relocation of Curtis + Ginsberg Architects to One Battery Park Plaza is a positive signal for Lower Manhattan's office market, which has faced considerable pressure in the post-pandemic era. High-profile lease signings at premier buildings demonstrate continued confidence in the neighborhood as a desirable business destination.
Lower Manhattan has been evolving rapidly, with new residential conversions, an influx of creative and professional service firms, and significant public realm improvements all contributing to a revitalized urban environment. The presence of a firm deeply committed to community-enhancing design in one of the area's landmark office towers feels particularly fitting for this moment in the neighborhood's evolution.
About Curtis + Ginsberg Architects
Curtis + Ginsberg Architects is a New York City-based architecture firm with a strong track record of delivering award-winning design across a diverse range of project types. The firm is particularly recognized for its expertise in sustainable design, integrating environmental best practices into projects that serve both clients and communities. With its expanded headquarters at One Battery Park Plaza, Curtis + Ginsberg is well-positioned to continue growing its practice and deepening its impact on New York City's built environment for years to come.