The Empire State Building has come a long way since the days when King Kong’s favorite skyscraper was primarily the offices of a shoe wholesaler and a dental practice. This great landmark has evolved into a financial and media mecca since Empire State Realty Trust acquired it in 2006 and launched a $550 million capital improvement program.
The newest tenant, global management consulting firm Kearney, signed a deal for 27,866 square feet to occupy the top two office floors, floors 78 and 79. (The upper floors are also home to broadcast facilities and an observatory.)
Kearney is relocating from Seven Times Square. Asking rent is $88 per square foot. Empire State was 93% leased, according to ESRT’s first-quarter earnings supplement.
“Kearney’s employees will enjoy breathtaking views,” said Thomas P. Durells, the landlord’s executive vice president of real estate, in a modest statement. Employees will also have access to 65,000 square feet of new amenities, including a fitness center, seven restaurants, a lounge, basketball and pickleball courts and a golf simulator.
