Author Archives: Nancy Kelly

Client Success Story: Quill

When Quill, a leading office supply company, sought to create a collaborative workspace that fostered employee engagement, they chose Tri State Lincolnshire for their new office. With an accelerated timeline requiring completion in just five months, Bradford Allen, as the owner, worked closely with Quill and their partners to deliver a thoughtfully designed 58,000-square-foot workspace that supports Quill’s evolving culture and return-to-office (RTO) strategy.

Watch the video to hear Mark E. Roszkowski, President at Quill, discuss his successful partnership with Bradford Allen.

 

750 Lexington Avenue Welcomes 50,000 SF of New Leases

NEW YORK (Feb. 24, 2025) – Bradford Allen today announced the successful completion of 50,000 square feet of new leases at 750 Lexington Avenue in Manhattan’s prestigious Plaza District. Glenn Isaacson, the firm’s New York market leader, and Tony Builder, senior associate, represented building owner Cohen Brothers Realty in the transactions.

The new tenants include Makai Labs, Old Court Equities, Communify, Clearline Capital, VT Luxe, Naomi Road Capital Advisors, Cristaudo Holdings, Dana Rebecca Designs, Moroccanoil, Colonial Navigation, Temin and Company, Sephora and RKO Stage.

“These leases reinforce the ongoing appeal of 750 Lexington Avenue as a premier office destination,” said Isaacson. “The building’s prime location, strong ownership and high-quality space continue to attract a diverse range of tenants looking for a best-in-class workplace.”

Located in the heart of the Plaza District — one of Manhattan’s most sought-after business hubs — 750 Lexington Avenue offers tenants unparalleled access to major subway lines, abundant retail and restaurant offerings, and landmarks including Central Park. Given its central location in the heart of Manhattan, Plaza District is home to some of the city’s most prestigious office buildings, making it a prime destination for companies seeking a prominent address and exceptional workplace environment.

Bradford Allen collaborated closely with Marc Horowitz, director of leasing for Cohen Brothers Realty, to secure the deals. With Cohen Brothers Realty headquartered in the building since its construction, ownership remains deeply invested in maintaining 750 Lexington Avenue’s standing as a top-tier office address.

Following this leasing momentum, two full floors and several partial floors remain available, presenting an opportunity for companies looking to establish or expand their presence in a premier Midtown location. For more leasing information, go to bradfordallen.com.

About Bradford Allen:

Bradford Allen (BA) is a commercial real estate firm based in the heart of downtown Chicago. Founded in 2003 by Jeff Bernstein and Larry Elbaum as an office brokerage, the firm has grown into a vertically integrated commercial real estate company, offering a full array of services and expertise across multiple U.S. markets to entrepreneurial, corporate and not-for-profit clients, including strategy, marketing and transaction execution for occupiers, investors and owners. For more information, visit bradfordallen.com.

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Editors:

For more information, please contact David Matthews at dmatthews@taylorjohnson.com or (312) 267-4523.

 

Mitzi Flexer Joins Bradford Allen as Managing Director, Expanding Firm’s New York Presence

NEW YORK CITY (Feb. 20, 2025) — Bradford Allen, a national full-service commercial real estate firm, today announced Mitzi Flexer has joined the company’s New York office as managing director. Flexer will be instrumental in expanding the firm’s presence in New York City’s outer boroughs, leveraging over a decade of experience in commercial real estate and a proven track record of executing strategic transactions across various asset types including office and retail. Prior to joining Bradford Allen, Flexer was a senior director at Cushman & Wakefield, where she specialized in strategic leasing and tenant representation.

“Mitzi is a seasoned professional with extensive market knowledge and deep community ties in New York City,” said Ben Azulay, president of Bradford Allen’s national brokerage business. “Her proven ability to structure and close complex deals for both landlords and tenants will be an invaluable asset as we expand our footprint in the region.”

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Flexer also brings extensive international experience to her role at Bradford Allen, having served clients throughout Europe, Central and South America.

“Mitzi is a trusted adviser with a strong reputation for guiding clients across industries including retail, healthcare and professional services,” said Glenn Isaacson, the firm’s New York market leader. “Her expertise in the outer boroughs, global perspective, deep market insights and strategic approach enable her to develop tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of her clients.”

Flexer is involved in several industry and community organizations, including the Real Estate Board of New York’s (REBNY) Brooklyn Retail Committee, where she is a founding member; the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce; and the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). She has been recognized multiple times as a CoStar Power Broker and was honored as one of Real Estate Weekly’s Leading Ladies in 2018. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history and comparative literature from Hofstra University.

Opened in 2021 and located in Manhattan, Bradford Allen’s New York office serves a wide range of clients across the metro area, providing local expertise and exceptional service in one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets.

With headquarters in Chicago, Bradford Allen’s comprehensive brokerage services include tenant representation, landlord representation, consulting and advisory services, property and asset management, and construction and project management.

About Bradford Allen:

Bradford Allen (BA) is a commercial real estate firm based in the heart of downtown Chicago. Founded in 2003 by principals Jeffrey Bernstein and Laurence Elbaum as an office brokerage, the firm has grown into a vertically integrated commercial real estate company, offering a full array of services and expertise across multiple U.S. markets to entrepreneurial, corporate and not-for-profit clients, including strategy, marketing and transaction execution for occupiers, investors and owners. For more information, visit bradfordallen.com.

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Editors:

For more information, contact David Matthews, dmatthews@taylorjohnson.com, (312) 267-4523.

 

Client Success Story: Northwestern Mutual

Facing an expiring lease and a need for a refreshed office space, Northwestern Mutual partnered with Bradford Allen to explore relocation options. After an extensive market search, it became clear that the best solution was to expand within their existing building. Led by Ben Azulay, the Bradford Allen team negotiated favorable lease terms to expand and relocate to another floor, helping Northwestern Mutual achieve a modern, collaborative office that supports future growth and impresses clients.

Watch the video to hear Jeff Sons, wealth management advisor at Northwestern Mutual, discuss his successful partnership with the Bradford Allen’s Tenant Representation practice.

 

Bradford Allen Executes Expansion and Lease Extension on 21,592 square feet at 1900 Spring Road

CHICAGO, IL – Bradford Allen today announced the completion of a 7,539-square-foot expansion and lease extension for US Investment Corporation, increasing the tenant’s total footprint to 21,592 square feet at 1900 Spring Road in Oak Brook, IL. Managing director Norman Murdoch represented the building’s owner, Franklin Partners, in the transaction.

“The expansion and lease extension for US Investment Corporation highlights the appeal of 1900 Spring Road as a premier office destination,” said Murdoch. “With its strategic location and modern amenities, the property continues to attract and retain tenants seeking a convenient and dynamic workplace.”

Located within Oakbrook Center—one of the nation’s top-performing lifestyle developments—1900 Spring Road offers tenants easy access to over 160 dining and retail options. The property’s efficient 22,300-square-foot floor plates, pre-cast concrete façade, and panoramic views make it an exceptional choice for a variety of businesses.

This transaction underscores Bradford Allen’s commitment and expertise in delivering value for ownership and supporting tenants’ evolving needs.

About Bradford Allen

Bradford Allen (BA) is a commercial real estate firm based in the heart of downtown Chicago. Founded in 2003 by principals Jeffrey Bernstein and Laurence Elbaum as an office brokerage, the firm has grown into a vertically integrated commercial real estate company, offering a full array of services and expertise across multiple U.S. markets to entrepreneurial, corporate and not-for-profit clients, including strategy, marketing and transaction execution for occupiers, investors and owners. For more information, visit bradfordallen.com.

 

Building the Future

Insights from Andy Gush and Chicago Build 2024

As top subject matter experts, Bradford Allen leaders are regularly asked to contribute to the industry conversations shaping the future of commercial real estate. Andy Gush, Vice President, Development, recently participated in the “High-Rise Development in the Midwest: Past, Present, Future” panel at Chicago Build 2024. Industry experts, including George Phillips Sorich of NORR, Jason Wilen of Klein & Hoffman, and John Peronto of Thornton Tomasetti, joined him in conversation.

Andy Gush, Bradford Allen’s Vice President, Development, discussed future developments in the Midwest at Chicago Build 2024, highlighting Arlington Med, our innovative redevelopment of the former Daily Herald building into a state-of-the-art medical office facility.
Photo by Guillermo Pizano Nuñez & Bradford Allen.

The panel provided a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of high-rise development in the Midwest, focusing in on economic trends, the increasing emphasis on sustainable building practices, and the necessity for adaptive reuse of the built environment. Reuse strategies are the most effective means of managing our carbon footprint, and recycling structure is a requisite step on the path to a climate-friendly future.

Among the pipeline projects discussed in the panel was Arlington Med, part of the first phase of Bradford Allen’s master-planned redevelopment of the south gateway to Arlington Heights, Illinois. The project includes a gut-rehabilitation of the 150,000-square-foot former Daily Herald building to a state-of-the-art medical office facility. As Gush noted in the panel, Arlington Med addresses the need for custom tenant solutions in the healthcare space, prioritizing the patient experience in all aspects of the buildout.

Panelists shared further insight into the challenges developers face, such as navigating complex zoning regulations and securing financing for ambitious projects. They also explored the importance of collaboration among architects, engineers, and developers to create spaces that meet the evolving needs of communities.

Our developments reflect our steadfast approach to building spaces that address market demands while being mindful of the communities they serve. For more information on Arlington Med and to read about our continuing commitment the Village of Arlington Heights, visit www.arlingtonmed.com.

 

Client Success Story: SB Friedman

SB Friedman was looking to relocate their office, needing a space that could be fully customized to meet their unique needs. Bradford Allen guided them through an extensive search, ultimately delivering a tailored solution that perfectly aligned with their vision. Managing Director Justin Kessler and the tenant rep team ensured a seamless transition, from selecting the space to moving into a custom buildout.

Watch the video to hear Ryan Hagerty, partner at SB Friedman, discuss his successful partnership with the Bradford Allen’s Tenant Representation practice.

 

Bradford Allen secures 7,500-SF lease for new P.J. Clarke’s at Manhattan West

New York, NY – Bradford Allen, a national full-service real estate firm, today announced the execution of a new lease on behalf of P.J. Clarke’s at 434 W. 33rd Street for 7,500 square feet. The historic local eatery will occupy 7,500 square feet at Manhattan West, a vibrant, six-acre mixed-use development of Brookfield Properties. Glenn Isaacson, executive vice president at Bradford Allen’s New York office, represented the tenant.

“We’re proud to have played a pivotal role in facilitating P.J. Clarke’s expansion into Manhattan West. By representing the tenant in this transaction, we not only contributed to their strategic growth but also enhanced the community by bringing one of the city’s iconic local brands to the West Side,” said Isaacson.

P.J. Clarke’s original location at Third Avenue and 55th Street is a New York staple with a legacy dating back to 1884. The new location will mark the eatery’s fourth—and largest—in Manhattan, joining a growing enterprise that now Philadelphia and Washington D.C.

About Bradford Allen
Bradford Allen (BA) is a commercial real estate firm based in the heart of downtown Chicago. Founded in 2003 by principals Jeffrey Bernstein and Laurence Elbaum as an office brokerage, the firm has grown into a vertically integrated commercial real estate company, offering a full array of services and expertise across multiple U.S. markets to entrepreneurial, corporate and not-for-profit clients, including strategy, marketing and transaction execution for occupiers, investors and owners. For more information, visit bradfordallen.com.


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Law Firms Post-Pandemic

In the wake of the pandemic, firms are reconsidering the efficacy of long-term remote work models. Reports suggest an undeniable tilt toward a larger return-to-office (RTO) strategy backed by compelling metrics — including increased revenue. With Fortune 500 companies leading the charge, the office environment is poised to reclaim its pivotal role in how business is transacted. Our latest post dives into these evolving dynamics to better understand how the shift is affecting the legal sector and how law firms are responding.

Read the full article now

 

Bradford Allen completes 15,000 SF of new leasing at Edens Corporate Center

CHICAGO, IL — September 6, 2023 — Bradford Allen, a national full-service commercial real estate firm, today announced the leasing of 15,000 square feet at Edens Corporate Center in Northbrook, Illinois, a northern suburb of Chicago. Senior managing director Joel Berger represented ownership in an expansion for MyHome Protection and separate transactions that welcomed Cedar Pine Capital and Beyond Finance to the building.

Current tenant MyHome Protection—which originally took 6,614 square feet of space in November 2022—has completed a direct expansion and extension for 3,641 square feet, which brings its total to 10,255 square feet.

Cedar Pine Capital leased approximately 6,000 square feet of high-end space, citing the quality of the property, its curb appeal, an enticing new amenity center, and the strategic location as prime selling points. The deal was finalized in a direct transaction.

Beyond Finance was quick to seize a 5,500-square-foot move-in-ready suite. This swift move caters to their local executive team, who had previously commuted downtown. Securing the lease within just two weeks, Darryl Silverman of Colliers represented Beyond Finance.

“Since taking on representation of Edens Corporate Center two years ago, our focus has been offering tailored solutions that respond to unique tenant needs,” said Berger. “The quick leasing agreements we’ve secured with Cedar Pine Capital and Beyond Finance are prime examples. Whether it’s high-end, custom spaces or move-in-ready suites for a rapidly expanding business, our approach is resonating with tenants looking for something beyond the typical offerings in the North Suburban market.”

These leases emphasize Edens Corporate Center’s commitment to delivering a superior customer experience—blending urban convenience, curb appeal, and a prime location to meet the high standards of today’s premier businesses.


About Bradford Allen
Bradford Allen is a national commercial real estate firm based in the heart of downtown Chicago. The company offers a full array of brokerage services and expertise to entrepreneurial, corporate, and not-for-profit clients. Services include strategy, marketing, and transaction execution for occupiers, investors, and owners of commercial real estate. Bradford Allen is the brand name of Bradford Allen Realty Services.