Law Firm Vedder Inks 49K SF Lease at 1221 Avenue of the Americas

Vedder, an international business-focused law firm with over 400 lawyers and other employees around the world, is relocating its New York City office to Rockefeller Group’s 1221 Avenue of the Americas, the property owner announced Monday. 

The law practice will relocate in 2027 from 1633 Broadway, about four blocks from its future home. The asking rent was not disclosed, and the length of the lease was described as a “long-term” deal. The average asking rent for office space in Midtown Manhattan was $85.08 per square feet during the third quarter of 2026, according to Colliers’ data. Vedder will occupy the entire 49,000-square-foot 34th floor of 1221 Avenue of the Americas. 

“We are very pleased to welcome Vedder to 1221 Avenue of the Americas,” Marisa Gadlin,  chief administrative officer and executive vice president at Rockefeller Group, said in a statement. “The building has long attracted many leading global firms and corporations, due to its central location and ongoing commitment to excellence and quality. Vedder is an outstanding fit that will strengthen the building’s tenant roster for many years to come.”

Gadin represented Rockefeller Group in-house on this deal, alongside Robert Lowe, Paige Engeldrum, Dan Organ and Pierce Hance from Cushman & Wakefield. C&W declined to comment on the lease. Vedder was represented by Savills’ David Goldstein, Joseph Learner and Scott Weiss. Savills did not immediately respond to Commercial Observer’s request for comment. 

Developed in 1972 by Rockefeller Group through a partnership with McGraw-Hill, 1221 Avenue of the Americas is a 2.6 million-square-foot office tower on the west side of Sixth Avenue between 48th and 49th streets. Other tenants include media and entertainment giant  NBC Universal and law firm Mayer Brown. 

The New York Post first reported the deal. 

Amanda Schiavo can be reached at aschiavo@commercialobserver.com