Steve Kaufman

What neighborhoods of New York have you been most active in over the past 12 months and why? 

We have been most active in Chelsea and Flatiron, where demand for space continues to be strong. The combination of location, quality buildings, and access to shopping and restaurants makes these neighborhoods attractive to tenants.  

Midtown South has recently undergone a real swelling of office activity. What do you make of that phenomenon? 

Midtown South is thriving because tenants want quality space that is easily commutable. The investments made in the Penn Station area by Vornado have been benefiting the neighborhood. Our building at 450 Seventh Avenue, located across the street from Penn Station, has seen an uptick in leasing, and we expect to continue seeing that demand.  

Tech companies appear to be the new popular office tenants. Where are they going and what do they need in 2020s office space to stay? 

We have seen tech firms in Chelsea, Flatiron and Midtown. These tenants are looking for quality space that is modern, flexible and built out. They also are attracted to neighborhoods that are active with things to do and close to transportation.  

Has your organization invested in opportunistic office deals? What about value-add? 

No, not recently. 

Lighting Round:

More excited about — interest rate cut or Taylor Swift’s engagement?
Interest rate cuts! 

Last vacation and where?
Last summer on Cape Cod.

How are the tariffs going to affect your Thanksgiving shopping?
Not at all.  

You appear on the kisscam at a concert. Who’s performing?
Bruce Springsteen.  

If Stephen Starr asked you which restaurant he should next reopen, what would it be?
Babbo.