2025 Year in Review: Lauren Gardner, Spectorgroup

What transaction, project, or key moment best reflected the direction of the New York CRE market this year? 

There’s been much discussion on shrinking office footprints nationwide, but in New York City, we’re seeing the opposite. This year, Spectorgroup has partnered with several companies that are significantly expanding or even doubling their existing square footage as they reinvest in the workplace as a culture driver. It’s a clear signal that NYC’s commercial market is not only recovering but poised for renewed growth and a potential development boom in the year ahead.

What emerging trends or shifts will shape opportunities for you, your firm, or market sector in 2026? 

A key trend in commercial real estate right now is the rise of co-working/ “mini” private suites as a building amenity offered by landlords for attracting and retaining building tenants. These plug-and-play spaces offer startups an affordable, turnkey entry point into premium buildings, allowing owners to cultivate long-term tenants who can scale into larger suites over time. For existing tenants, mini suites also function as flexible swing space, providing temporary room to expand during build-outs or floor transitions. This model gives buildings a competitive edge in a market where agility and affordability drive leasing decisions.

What accomplishment, milestone, project or transaction stood out for you or your firm in 2025? 

In 2025, we were brought on as partners for several exciting new projects that will continue to redefine flexible, human-centric workplaces for the years ahead. Highlights include a new 200,000 s/f headquarters for professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal, as well as new Manhattan offices for alternative asset manager MidOcean Partners and law firm Dorsey & Whitney. These projects will give us the opportunity to shape innovative, site-responsive spaces that support growth for these forward-looking companies.