2025 Year in Review: Marco Libani, SHED Innovation

What accomplishment, milestone, project or transaction stood out for you or your firm in 2025? Seeing our first two Halo installations rise on New York streets was a defining moment for us - we are clearly aligned with how the city reconsiders its built environment. What stood out most to landlords, tenants and the talented workers who assembled our system, was the speed and precision of each installation. Our belief has always been that smarter engineering will win the race - anyone can design a pretty shed, it’s the functionality and cost that makes this product impressive. Halo begins to show what a truly next-generation sidewalk shed can look and feel like.

What emerging trends or shifts will shape opportunities for you, your firm, or market sector in 2026? 
NYC’s updated sidewalk shed design recommendations are setting the stage for major opportunities next year. By emphasizing more open designs and eliminating the dense cross-bracing that closes off sidewalks, the city is encouraging a different way of thinking about these structures. It echoes many of the considerations that have guided our own work at SHED. As owners and contractors prepare for future projects, we’re seeing increased interest in systems that deliver efficiency and safety, and make it easier for people and businesses to function around a job site.

What transaction, project, or key moment best reflected the direction of the New York CRE market this year? 
In a year defined by the city’s transition of power and its broader evolution, a standout moment was mayor-elect Mandami talking about improving sidewalk sheds on the campaign trail, reinforcing mayor Adams’ broader calls for better-designed, better-functioning structures. That kind of alignment at the leadership level shows just how timely this conversation has become for NYC. We look forward to working with the city and its new code to continue evolving Halo to achieve the best results for New York pedestrians and retailers.