Greystar, a global leader in the investment, development and management of high-quality real estate across the living sector, has unveiled its new International Headquarters at The Gilbert on Finsbury Square in the City of London. The new International Headquarters will act as a focal point to facilitate continued growth reflecting Greystar’s commitment to delivering high quality rental housing and a great experience for customers in key cities across the UK and Europe.
Greystar entered the UK in 2013 and is now active in seven European markets with more than 955 team members working in its local offices or at one of its 190 assets. The company has invested £25bn of institutional capital to build a portfolio of more than 62,000 apartments and student beds in just over a decade.
In line with Greystar’s commitment to minimising environmental impact, The Gilbert was selected for its credentials as a BREAM certified building. The space has been fitted out in line with BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out Standards (Very Good) with credits across energy, water, waste, pollution, travel, noise and materials. Many of the materials used in the fit out have sustainability certifications such as Energy Star (IT equipment) and where possible materials from Greystar’s previous London office have been reused, recycled or donated to good causes.
The design of the new headquarters reflects Greystar’s focus on people, genuine relationships, and shared values. The space is intended to help team members thrive with the design, amenities and technology creating a work environment that is optimised for hybrid working practices to maximise productivity whilst supporting mental and physical wellbeing. Greystar is targeting Fitwell certification of three stars.
Bob Faith, Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Greystar, said: “Our new International Headquarters marks a significant milestone in Greystar’s growth journey and is testament to our leading role in the global real estate market. I am incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and the innovative spirit that continues to drive the company forward. The office in London will serve as a hub for excellence, providing a space that colleagues can be proud of, fostering collaboration and furthering our commitment to delivering beautiful living environments and innovative services that enhance our residents’ living experience.”
Mark Allnutt, Executive Director, Europe, Greystar, said: “The inauguration of our new European headquarters reflects our steadfast commitment to the UK and Europe. Over the last decade, we have invested around £25bn of institutional capital into new housing and made significant strides to improve the quality of rental homes. Our new headquarters will enable to further this mission by driving growth and innovation as we continue to meet the evolving needs of today’s renters.”
Jessica Spindler, Managing Director at interior design company Elizabeth Stuart Design, said: “Design matters to Greystar and its new International Headquarters is emblematic of that principle. Our goal was to create a space that is reflective of Charleston, but and highly personalised to London. We started with space planning and from there, it began to tell a story. The key design decisions centred around the spiral stairwell and tying this back to the signature staircase at the Greystar headquarters in Charleston. The use of warm materials was imperative, and we sourced art and lighting from all over Europe. Graphic rugs and classically designed furniture were used to parallel the scale of the architecture. While it is evident we leaned towards modern furniture using iconic brands like Knoll and Eames, it was also important to layer with key vintage pieces. The collection of contemporary art by William Halsey spans from Charleston to London. Ultimately, it came down to creating a consistency for Greystar where function and great design coexist.”
Nick Barrowman, Project Director, at fitout contractor Morgan Lovell, said: “It has been an honour to be a part of this journey, and a pleasure to work closely with HTA Design and Elizabeth Stuart to deliver an exceptional space for Greystar to call home. Sharing our expertise in the London fit out sector, the design embraces and enhances The Gilbert’s heritage and historic beauty, resulting in a truly stand-out workplace woven with the building’s distinctive character. Working with a historic building is never without its challenges, so we thank our project team and wider partners for their dedication and commitment on delivering this ambitious project.”
