With the stabilization of Brazil's economy after years of hyper-inflation, São Paulo's real estate market in 1996 was positioned for growth. International companies were entering the market for the first time, or expanding their operations to accommodate anticipated growth. Due to unavailability of financing and slack demand, very little first-class office space was built in the 1980s and early 1990s, creating a development opportunity. Tishman Speyer researched the Brazilian market extensively to gain insight into the market and entered into a joint venture partnership with Método Engenharia S.A., one of Brazil's most respected construction companies, forming a strategic alliance (TSM) to combine Tishman Speyer's world-class development capabilities with Método Engenharia's construction expertise and familiarity with the market.

TSM identified a prime site located along the river in São Paulo where a project had been designed and approved for construction but had never been completed. The project consisted of three office towers linked by a retail space to form a single complex. Construction had begun on the West Tower before the project was stalled. The North and East Towers of the project were designed and approved, but construction had not begun. TSM formed a relationship with Funcef, a Brazilian pension fund, which agreed to provide funding for the purchase and redevelopment of the Torre Norte. The 36-story office tower consists of ca. 60,000 sqm rentable office area, 5,200 sqm retail area and 1,954 parking spaces below grade.

TSM carefully examined the approved design of the tower and made many modifications to ensure the leasability, profitability and efficiency of the space. The building's mechanical systems were reconfigured to achieve greater efficiency, converting two-and-a-half floors of the building from mechanical floors to leasable space. Other modifications included core re-design to improve system performance and increase building leasable area.

Centro Empresarial Nações Unidas is a prime example of Tishman Speyer's ability to establish operations outside of the U.S. The tower is creating value for Funcef in the form of a strong asset which will offer top-of-the-market performance. This project provides tenants with the best office space available in the market. In addition, this world-class development stimulates growth and increases property values throughout the riverside location known as "The Marginal."

KEY FEATURES

  • New city landmark due to its volume, height and visibility
  • High quality finishes (granite, stainless steel…)
  • Variety of retail and restaurant facilities in the concourse area
  • Roof-top helicopter pad
  • Floorplate design with flexible layout options
  • 24 hours security
  • Easy access through public and private transport




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