JANUARY 2024
THE OPTIMISM ISSUE
JANUARY 2024 page 1
CONTENTS/ 7
10 Things I Learned from 30 Days of Kindness
12
Student Interview
14
The Rise of Influencer Social Responsibility: Transforming Social Media for Social Impact
20
Mixing Business with Pleasure, Pleasure with Business
26
The Optimism Of New Yorkers
28
FUN FACTS
New York Happy Places
30
Event Recaps
46
Thank You to Our Sponsors
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INSITE COMMITTEE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DESIGNED AND ILLUSTRATED BY
Manager, Strategic Accounts Allsteel
VP of Marketing Sossego
CECILE ROTHSCHILD
Nick Bornheimer
Wanda Dunaway
Create and Associates, Inc.
WRITERS + COPY EDITORS:
Jennifer Busch
Director of Client Partnerships Eventscape
David Feliciano Principal Eagle Transfer
Daniel Castner
Life Science Practice Director + Principal MANCINI:DUFFY
Anna Ferkingstad
Independent Consultant
Rebecca Fielding
Business Development Manager JRM Construction Management
GOVERNANCE & NOMINATING
Laura Patel
Senior Managing Director, Sales and Client Solutions CBRE FINANCE & INVESTMENT
Christian Bryan
Vice President, Head of Global Real Estate Alteryx MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Courtney Grill Director, Business Development Skanska MEMBERSHIP
Chelsea Flaim Senior Manager CBRE
New Business Development Executive HUSH
Stephen Kelley Senior Associate WRNS
CORENET NYC 2023 EXECUTIVE BOARD CHAIRS SPONSORSHIP CHAIR
Stefany Koslow
Margaux Jaffa
Director of Client Services IA Interior Architects
TECHNOLOGY
Jeremy Libby
Real Estate, Operations Lead Google STRATEGIC PLANNING
Sonya Dufner
Client Relationships Management Committee Member, Principal Gensler SPECIAL EVENTS
Debra Cole
Principal/Client Relations Director of New York hlw
CORENET NYC 2023 LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR
Alison Kwiatkowski
Senior Vice President, Global Workplace Experience Warner Music Group PRESIDENT
Larry Charlip
Interim Global Facilities Lead Warner Music Group VICE PRESIDENT
Mindy Williams Director Turner & Townsend TREASURER
Christian Bryan
Vice President, Head of Global Real Estate Alteryx SECRETARY
Sandra Yencho PROGRAMMING & OUTREACH
Vice President, East Region Pacific Program Management
JANUARY 2024 page 3
CORENET NYC 2023 ADVISORS Barry Alton Neil Austin
Vice President, Real Estate Portfolio Management and Transaction Services Omnicom Group Inc.
Jason Aster
Managing Director, Growth KBA Lease Services
Lou D’Avanzo
Vice Chairman, Managing Principal Cushman & Wakefield
Paul Darrah
Director of Real Estate NYC Google
Dan Fishbein
Adjunct Professor NYU Schack Institute of Real Estate
Sheena Gohil
Executive Director Colliers International
Lou Nowikas
Vice President Hearst Corporation
Tommy O’Halloran
Vice President of Business Development Structure Tone, Inc.
Gina Rizzo
CORENET 2023 CONTENT COUNCIL CHAIRS CAREER DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGY & PORTFOLIO
Senior Portfolio Programs Manager Hines
Bill Mooney
Nekesha Sawh
Global Client Relations MillerKnoll
DIVERSITY, EQUITY &
Dale Schlather
Sarah D’Annibale
Executive Vice Chairman, Brokerage Services Chairman of Tenant Advisory Group (TAG) Cushman & Wakefield
Marcus Rayner
Vice Chairman, New York Region, Colliers
Pay Wu
President & Co-Founder MWBE Unite, Inc.
INCLUSION
mission is to advance the practice of corporate real estate through professional development opportunities, publications, research, conferences, and chapters and networking groups. CoreNet Global aims to broaden its network, raise the profile of corporate real estate, serve as the profession’s voice and thought leader and champion the profession’s development and maturity.
Executive Vice President CBRE
SUSTAINABILITY
Thomas BaadeMathiesen
Senior Client Services Manager M Moser Associates
Partner and Chairman The Switch
LANDLORD CIRCLE
Jack Senske
Darrien Pinkman
Senior Director Tishman Speyer END USER FORUMS
Nishar Fatema
Global Workplace Strategist, Workplace Services ServiceNow PARTNERSHIPS
Katie Koncar
Workplace Strategist Ernst & Young
Mission Statement: CoreNet Global’s
PLANNING
UNIVERSITY RELATIONS
Associated Director, Global Brokerage & Advisory Services Colliers International
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP
Lisa Speltz
Managing Director, Net Lease Real Estate Angelo, Gordon and Co.
YOUNG LEADERS
Mark Fischer
Account Manager Lane Office
PROPTECH
Calandra Cruickshank
President & CEO StateBook International PUBLIC POLICY
Katie Schiavi
Director of Business Development I Project Management Avison Young CoreNet would like to recognize and thank all previous and current Chairs and Advisors for their contributions and guidance to the organization. JANUARY 2024 page 4
LETTER FROM CHAIRPERSON
Alison Kwiatkowski
Senior Vice President, Global Workplace Experience Lead, Warner Music Group
Dear CoreNet New York City Members, IIt is with great pride and gratitude that I address you in this very special edition of InSite. As we find ourselves in the final push of the year amidst the shadows of recent global events, socio-political tensions, and the aftermath of the pandemic, a newsletter dedicated to optimism takes on a striking irony. As New Yorkers, most of us would laugh at calling ourselves optimists. We are known to the world as fast-talking, no-nonsense cynics. We drink our coffee black and our cocktails straight, and of course, our wardrobes are a single shade. And armed with our hardened shells, no one would question the fact that in the face of unprecedented challenges, New Yorkers do not flinch. Nor would anyone question our grit to turn our setbacks into stepping stones or our hustle to chase a dream. And so it is not surprising that as we face our city’s current complex and layered realities, New Yorkers are demonstrating once again our remarkable ability to adapt, overcome, and emerge stronger. This resilience is not just a response to adversity but a steadfast belief in the power of our collective determination and commitment to our incredible city. The spirit of resilience that pulsates through the heart of New York is a testament to the indomitable strength and unwavering (dare-I-say!) optimism that defines our community. This very belief that we will rise higher than before sets New Yorkers apart from any other city in the world, and this spirit will carry us through the challenges that lie ahead. And so here we are, sharing stories of optimism to remind us of what it means to call ourselves New Yorkers.
Before we dive in, I would like to take a moment to extend my sincere appreciation to our everdedicated Executive Board, whose steadfast commitment created an incredible 2023 for our Chapter. Your leadership and strategic vision continue to guide us as we navigate the intricacies of our current industry. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to our Content Council Chairs, whose creativity and passion have infused a renewed energy throughout our programming this year. It is through your hard work we continue to bring a fresh perspective to our community. Lastly, to our invaluable volunteers, the bedrock of our organization, your shared efforts are the driving force behind our success. We cannot thank you enough for your excitement and dedication to our Chapter. Looking ahead to 2024, I am filled with a sense of positivity and anticipation. I think we can all agree this coming year will not be for the faint of heart, but I truly believe it will mark a significant milestone in our shared journey–the year New York rebounds once again. Together, we will embrace the challenges and opportunities that come our way, fueled by the resilience and optimism that define us. Thank you for your continued support, and here’s to another year for CoreNet New York. Sincerely,
Alison Kwiatkowski CoreNet NYC Chair, New York Chapter of CoreNet Global, Inc. Senior Vice President, Global Workplace Experience Lead, Warner Music Group
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BY:
Wanda Dunaway, VP of Marketing, Sossego
G
oogle “how to be happy”, and along with exercising, practicing mindfulness, and spending time with friends, you will always find some version of “be kind to others”. David Hamilton, PhD and author of The Five Side Effects of Kindness, reports that kindness makes us happier, is good for the heart, slows aging, improves relationships, and is contagious. The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, a small nonprofit that invests its resources into making “kindness the norm”, tells us that kindness increases energy, lifespan, pleasure, and the feelgood hormones oxytocin and serotonin while decreasing pain, stress, anxiety, depression, and blood pressure. The UK Mental Health Foundation/YouGov 2020 survey found that 63% of UK adults agree that both giving and receiving kindness positively impacts their mental health. I can always be happier and healthier, so I decided to try it—30 days of kindness, and here are 10 things I learned along the way.
Good Morning
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1
Random acts of kindness can be awkward.
The first act was saying “good morning” to everyone I passed on my commute to work. Seems easy enough, right? Even as an extrovert, it was more uncomfortable than expected. Many people seemed confused by this person speaking to them on the street. A few smiled and said “good morning” back— mainly the construction workers. Most of the individuals were wearing earbuds and not making eye contact, so it felt a bit like that embarrassing moment when you wave at someone and they don’t notice. After a few of those, I felt a little silly and had to work up the nerve to greet the next target. My husband was with me, which increased the cringe factor, but it became a bit of a joke, which led to some joy to start the day.
2
Having a plan can be helpful.
I started with close to 70 ideas for random acts of kindness. A plan might go against the concept of random, but having the list saved me on days when I was really busy or distracted. Choosing one or more options each morning or the evening before, considering variables like where I would be, who I might encounter, or how much free time I would have, prevented me from reaching the end of the day and realizing I had forgotten to perform my daily deed. Even spontaneous acts like helping a stranger with directions might not have occurred to me if I hadn’t reviewed the list regularly.
3
Acts that are sincere and personal to you are the most rewarding.
Some of the acts presented themselves to me, like when the commuter in front of me scanned her phone and started through the subway turnstile only to be blocked because it had reset before she got through. I said, “Go ahead. I’ve got you.” Neither of us missed a beat. I felt particularly benevolent with this act because the blocked turnstile is one of my
personal pet peeves since it puts a damper on my proud persona of the competent New Yorker who can breeze through the public transit system. Similarly, commenting on a stranger’s social media post felt especially gratifying because I am always excited to receive a comment from someone I don’t know.
4
Flexibility proved important.
My original plan was to perform 30 unique acts of kindness in 30 days. I found myself “saving up” the easy ones so I didn’t struggle to find a unique act later in the cycle. It was making me a little crazy and inhibiting the happiness I hoped to encounter in the actions. It suddenly hit me that each day’s activity didn’t need to be unique, and this restriction didn’t benefit either the giver or the receivers. If two strangers needed help with directions on two different days, they each still benefited from my assistance, and I still felt good about helping them. When I removed my self-imposed limitation, the number of acts increased, and so did my satisfaction. I also gave myself permission to count some of the things I already do regularly, like sending birthday texts to friends, family, and colleagues. JANUARY 2024 page 7
5
When you start looking, you’ll find more opportunities.
Once I released myself from my former militancy about the project, I started looking for opportunities all of the time, not just once a day. They were everywhere. An extra umbrella went to an unhoused person, leftover treats from an event went to the security guy at the front desk, and congratulations went out to a friend on LinkedIn.
6
It’s more rewarding when you can see the effect on the recipient.
I would like to say that just the act of doing something nice for someone always felt great, but it didn’t always. The attempts that gave me the most satisfaction were those where I saw the impact on the recipient, like the evening I created a “Thinking of You” GIF in Canva and texted it to people I was actually thinking of. Almost everyone wrote back, and it was great to cross back and forth with a few texts, but the best were two who wrote back, “OMG. I needed this. Miss you so much!” and “Thank you so much for this! It’s been a really rough few months for me.” It made me feel wonderful that I could give my friends what they needed as part of this project. On the other side, one of my acts was creating motivational posters that said, “You’ve got this!” and “You are enough.” I posted them in a few areas around the city on my commute to work and home. Designing the posters and thinking about how they might influence someone was fun. Still, I found myself wondering if anyone actually saw them and feeling a bit lackluster about the effort. Congratulations on your promotion
7
Doing something with good motives may lead to something good returning to you.
I work a day or two each week in the Sossego showroom, which doesn’t have a dishwasher or running water. The options for washing dishes are either the tiny bathroom sink with a sensor that keeps turning off, the disgusting sink in the utility closet, or dragging them home to use our own dishwasher, so we mostly use disposable dishes. We recently hosted a large event and used a few non-disposable serving dishes. Our neighbors at KI down the hall had previously offered to let us use their dishwasher, so we decided to take them up on the generous offer. They were kind and gracious to empty the dishwasher for us. I wanted to do something nice for them, so I baked some pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread, a staple of our brand’s hospitality) and took them to the KI team to enjoy while the dishes were washing. They were grateful for the treat and took the time to bring our platters back to me when they finished the cycle. Bonus good feelings. Later that day, in the elevator at the Chief (women’s network supporting executive leaders) clubhouse, I sincerely complimented Dhan, one of the team members, on the pin he wore. He said, “Thanks! Do you want it?” Turns out, he had several of them and was thrilled to give one to me.
8
More effort doesn’t necessarily lead to more happiness.
Probably the most time-consuming and laborintensive act was shopping for an elderly woman who lives in a fifth-floor walk-up through Invisible Hands, a local volunteer organization. It was a scorching day, I was tired and sweaty from the long walk and trip up the five floors, and there was only a brief interaction with the recipient as I slid the groceries in and she slid a check out. Candidly,
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I didn’t have a bounce in my step on the walk home after the effort, even though it probably meant a lot to the beneficiary. Another pretty tough act was to catch myself complaining for 24 hours. Still, in that situation, I would say that the effort was worth it because it boosted my mental well-being by not getting bogged down in complaints and negativity.
9
Acts of kindness for yourself are just as important as acts for others.
Just as the airlines always tell you to put the mask on yourself first, I found that doing some random acts for me was also important. The elderly woman now has me listed as her preferred volunteer. I would like to say that the good deed is reward enough, but in full transparency, the bubble tea to which I treat myself on the way back puts a smile on my face.
10
Doing good can be habit-forming.
Some of the acts will stay in my repertoire. I will continue to send notes to friends, make the trek up the five floors with groceries most Sundays, and be on the lookout for people who look like they need a fare. I also learned that kindness is not a magic pill. My 30 days of kindness experiment didn’t mean I was always in a good mood, was never anxious about anything, or was painfree. I can say that it brought me joy, made a difference to a few people, and encouraged me to continue the experience. As Dr. Waguih William IsHak, professor of psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai, reports, “The trick you need to know: Acts of kindness have to be repeated. Biochemically, you can’t live on the 3-to-4minute oxytocin boost that comes from a single act.” Therefore, I will keep working on my list, looking for ways to be kind, and riding the wave of happiness that results.
Random Acts of Kindness If you want to embark on your own kindness journey, here are some ideas to get you started. 1. Comment on a stranger’s social media post. 2. Say “good morning” to everyone you pass on the way to work. 3. Send “thinking of you” notes to friends you haven’t connected with in a while. 4. Compliment a stranger. 5. Give a more generous tip than normal. 6. Praise your colleague(s) for something they’ve done well. 7. Catch yourself complaining for 24 hours. 8. Volunteer. 9. Congratulate someone on a work promotion. 10. Share a favorite recipe. 11. Pay a subway fare for someone. 12. Offer directions to someone who is lost. 13. Introduce yourself to a new person at work. 14. Tip a performer. 15. Promote a performer on social media. 16. Post an encouraging note in public. 17. Pick up litter. 18. Thank the custodians at work. 19. Smile at as many people as you can. 20. Open the door for someone. 21. Let someone go ahead of you in the subway station. 22. Make a donation to a charity. 23. Text a friend “Happy birthday”. 24. Post a review for a local business. 25. Bake a treat for someone. 26. Give someone the benefit of the doubt. 27. Give an umbrella to a homeless person. 28. Make plans with friends you haven’t seen in a while. 29. Take a walk with a friend. 30. Phone a friend and tell them they are awesome. JANUARY FALL 2024 2023 page 9
31. Call a family member and tell them how much you appreciate them. 32. Share a positive news story. 33. Appreciate the rain. 34. Shop a local business. 35. Learn something new about a coworker. 36. Forgive someone for something they have done to you. 37. Forgive yourself for something you have done. 38. Send thank you notes to three customers. 39. Send a funny meme or gif to make a friend laugh. 40. Start and end the day with positive intentions. 41. Treat yourself. 42. Tell someone how happy they make you. 43. Send flowers to a friend. 44. Send someone a handwritten note. 45. Tell someone you know that you are proud of them. 46. Tell someone you know why you are thankful for them. 47. Send an interesting article to a friend. 48. Put a surprise note or drawing on someone’s desk. 49. Engage in conversation with a shop assistant when paying at the register. 50. Make and send a care package to someone who needs it.
51. Lend your ear—listen to your colleague who is having a bad day. 52. Have a conversation with someone who is experiencing homelessness. 53. Help a mother carry her stroller down the stairs or hold the door for her. 54. Return a lost item to its owner. 55. Pop into a coffee shop and ask to pay for a coffee for them to give to someone later that day for free. 56. Visit a senior home and deliver a kind surprise. 57. Compliment with reckless abandon. 58. Celebrate someone you love. 59. Leave quarters at the laundromat. 60. Put coins in an expired parking meter. 61. Buy a gift card to hand to someone on your way out of the coffee shop. 62. Leave a positive note on a stranger’s car. 63. Make a list of things you love about your spouse. 64. Call the manager to compliment an associate. 65. Donate to a Patreon. 66. Tell an author you loved reading their book. 67. Reach out to an old teacher and let them know you appreciate them.
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STUDENT INTERVIEW
MOHAMMED WARA
BY:
Stefany Koslow, New Business Development Executive, HUSH
CoreNet’s relationship with real estate up-and-comers is thriving in 2023! As outreach with college students in NYC continues, both CoreNet and the students reap benefits from the association. This year’s scholarship recipient is Mohammed Wara.
About Mohammed: He was born and raised in Jackson Heights, Queens, NY, to Afghan-born parents and is the youngest of three brothers. Currently, Mohammed is living close to NYU, where he is a Senior at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate. When he has a moment to take nonreal-estate-related courses, Mohammed has chosen to explore comedy and filmmaking classes.
We’re looking forward to getting to know you today! How did you learn about CoreNet? Professor Brian Schwargel introduced me to CoreNet Global this past spring when I took his ESG class. CoreNet is providing students with the opportunity to connect with industry leaders in commercial real estate. My courses at NYU Schack have prepared me for technical real estate problem-solving but not for the peer-to-peer cooperation necessary for a project’s success. I’m involved with CoreNet so that I can have an informed opinion of the job market. That includes meaningful connections.
Where do you think your passion for real estate comes from? My dad has been driving a yellow cab in NYC for the past 36 years. When I was a kid, he would take me in the passenger seat, and I would join him for the night shift. It was our version of Take Your Son to Work Day. He showed me Manhattan’s iconic high-rise architecture from the
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What kind of coursework are you taking at NYU Schack to prepare for your real estate career? The coursework is very focused on pragmatic learning and consistent practice. For example, in Real Estate Finance, the class works in groups to solve case studies to decide if a project would be profitable. Courses include Capital Markets in Real Estate, Financial Modeling, Risk, and Portfolio Management. The professors are active members of the real estate industry, so the curriculum is based around making us ready for our careers.
I understand you have an internship with Daisy. Can you tell us about the work you’re doing there?
moments and interactions in the office. The company training videos were helpful, but the in-person mentorship helped me work through more nuanced situations. When I needed guidance on a task, my coworkers were right there to help me work through it. I was also pulled to the side occasionally for things that were not about my assigned work but to give me a better understanding of how Daisy operates and involves the bigger picture. Those inclusive, mentoring moments mean a lot.
STUDENT INTERVIEW
highways, bridges, and roads connecting the five boroughs. It’s hard for me to communicate the wonder I have around those gleaming and boldly lit skyscrapers that have been magnificent to me since my childhood. Since this is the optimism/ joy issue, you can say the skyline always sparks joy for me!
I’ve heard the idea that young people don’t want to be in the office; they’d rather work remotely. Office space may transform, but it still has a place in modern work culture. I’m not alone in my experience interning in person. My friends at Baruch share this sentiment. Working in person, especially for new staff/interns, is irreplaceable. Physical presence and the in-between moments of small talk and coffee breaks help workers feel like they matter and are included. Even though office space is in a weird spot in NYC, I believe it will survive and thrive.
I started working at Daisy this year. Daisy’s mission is to modernize the property management industry with its software. Creating consistent communication with condo/co-op board members ensures that buildings are “healthier and happier”. While the internship could be done remotely or in-person, I easily chose the “IRL” option. More than 75% of my learning came from the “in-between”
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BY:
Rebecca Fielding Business Development JRM Construction
INTERVIEWEE
Alexandra Bushman The Bushman Group
The Rise of Influencer ™** Social Responsibility: Transforming Social Media for Social Impact Alexandra Bushman knew she wanted to dedicate her life to doing good work and spreading optimism and hope since she was a young girl. As a native New Yorker born and raised in downtown Manhattan in Battery Park City, Bushman was just eight years old when the towers fell on 9/11. Her mother worked in the World Financial Center and her father took the subway from the World Trade Center station every day. In the months following 9/11, Bushman’s family was dislocated from their home for three months. Her sisters’ nursery closed temporarily, and her elementary school relocated twice, as they waited for government assurance that they could
return to their neighborhood and building. Her mom’s news operation with the Wall Street Journal was transferred to the Dow Jones corporate headquarters in New Jersey – a four-hour commute. Worst of all, they grieved for the lives lost. While Bushman vividly remembers the events of that morning – evacuating school, running from her elementary school up the west side highway with her classmates to safety – she also remembers being inspired by what happened in the following days, months, years, as the world came together to help. Bushman remembers teddy bears sent from students in England, and paper cranes from students in Japan. The
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generosity and support from strangers after such devastation showed her at a young age the importance of compassion and resilience, and has fueled her to live life with“relentless optimism.” She has dedicated her life to this cause, obtaining a certification in social impact strategy from the University of Pennsylvania. Bushman now works with major corporations, brands, and some of the most influential people on social media who want to use their reach to give back through her consulting agency: The Bushman Group. As Gen Z enters the workforce, they are demanding a commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from their
ALEX BUSHMAN
It’s such interesting work because everyone cares about something different and the goals of each corporation can be such a wide range. I really enjoy tailoring the work to each client to make sure it’s authentic and aligned with the brand and the organization.
employers – more so than any generation before them. Bushman and I had a conversation about what this looks like and how companies and nonprofit organizations can collaborate to address some of the world’s most pressing issues, while simultaneously helping their overall business, and creating meaningful and fulfilling opportunities for their employees.
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Q: How did you come up with the idea to launch WeGaveWhat with Danielle Bernstein, founder of WeWoreWhat?
A:
I met Danielle when I was working as a Social Media Manager at Eat Offbeat, a refugee and immigrantled catering company in NYC. Eat Offbeat catered an event where influencers, including Bernstein, spoke about using their platforms for good. After the event, I sent her a message on Instagram to tell her about Eat Offbeat and offered to send food. A year or so later, COVID hit New York. It was such a dark time to be in the city – and felt very reminiscent of post9/11 – the streets were empty, people were saying the city is dead, the constant sound of ambulances – just so much sadness. At the time, Danielle had around 2.5 million followers on Instagram and had begun to use her platform to support struggling small businesses and nonprofits serving populations that were especially vulnerable during the pandemic. She posted a story on her Instagram saying she wanted to be doing more with her platform to help people during this time. Once again, I DM’d her about Eat Offbeat and asked if I could deliver her food to help our small business stay open. My sister and I delivered food to Danielle’s doorstep and as we drove away, she posted something sharing our story with her followers … orders and DMs to the Eat Offbeat account began flooding in before we finished the drive back to the city.
Q: How exactly does WeGaveWhat work?
A:
The success seen from Danielle’s support inspired me to pitch to her the idea of starting a philanthropic arm of her brand together. In May 2020 we launched WeGaveWhat. WeGaveWhat is about leveraging Danielle’s incredible community (of followers and brands) to support nonprofits and causes that she believes in and are aligned with her brand. One example of how we operate is our partnership with Start Lighthouse, a literacy non-profit based out of The Bronx. Prior to COVID, Rina Mamdani was an elementary school teacher. Once the pandemic hit, she noticed her students falling behind as they didn’t have access to books at home as they did at school. Rina also recognized a larger issue – that many of the books being used in schools don’t reflect the diversity of the student body. In New York City especially, there are so many students who are bilingual, or come from different cultural backgrounds, or are migrants or children of migrants, or are exploring their gender identity, etc. They need books where they can see themselves represented in order to build confidence. Rina founded Start Lighthouse to change this and started looking for ways to get funding and book donations. WeGaveWhat is able to leverage both ShopWeWoreWhat and other brand partners in the WeWoreWhat network to support Start Lighthouse’s mission. For example: we used proceeds from ShopWeWoreWhat sales to buy books for P.S. 5 Port Morris, one of the schools in the Start Lighthouse community. When the P.S. Port Morris 8th grade students had their junior prom, we worked with GlamSquad to do hair and makeup for the girls. Most recently, we worked with Dylan’s Candy Bar to host a Trunk-or-Treat at P.S.
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5 Port Morris for Halloween. Halloween is a huge gang initiation night in the Bronx so every year the school hosts a Trunk-or-Treat in the morning so students can celebrate Halloween safely. These are all examples of ways that brands can utilize the resources they have to support nonprofits doing amazing work.
Q: Have you come across other influencers who want to use their platforms for good?
A:
Yes, so many! And more and more with all the horrible things happening in the world. I met with an influencer recently who said she feels like she’s built a huge platform quickly, and now doesn’t know what to do with it. She’s constantly given things for free and feels like she has such an excess and has become disconnected from her actual purpose. I think that’s a common sentiment with the industry, especially because it’s still relatively new and growing so quickly. It’s kind of similar to how Hollywood or the sports industry functions. Celebrities or athletes rise to fame and then realize they want to do something with it. This is why you see so many celebrities and athletes starting their own foundations. My hope is to become the “go-to person” for influencers and brands who want to do this. Ten years ago, I’d say that people were just understanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as an industry and I believe that’s where the influencer industry is headed.
Q: In addition to influencers, you also have helped larger corporations with their CSR goals. What are their goals usually like? What are they hoping to achieve?
A:
A lot of businesses will say ‘we want to do something good,’ but they might not be tapped into the nonprofit organizations (NPOs), or have a dedicated arm of their business working on this. I think the way things used to work was that companies with money and the [NPOs] who needed support would operate in silos. Corporations would stick to business and nonprofits would stick to purpose. Now, there’s a general understanding that we all need to work together to make the biggest impact, and that it’s actually beneficial for the bottom line. My agency works to connect the puzzle pieces (who has what, who needs what) and be the middle-woman between both sides to bridge the gap … helping NPOs find corporate partners and helping corporations find the right NPO partners, and coming up with innovative campaigns and events that serve both. It’s such interesting work because everyone cares about something different and the goals of each corporation can be such a wide range. I really enjoy tailoring the work to each client to make sure it’s authentic and aligned with the brand and the organization.
Q: Can you share some examples of what these major corporations are doing for CSR?
A:
Last Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, I worked with Mastercard which was really fun. And I’m half Filipina. During and after the pandemic, there was a major spike in hate crimes toward the AAPI community due to people linking the virus to China. I worked with an incredible organization called ‘Welcome to Chinatown’ to throw a pop-up lunch market and panel their employees – complete with a Chinese lion-dance! Welcome to Chinatown helped curate a group of amazing local AAPI vendors so after the panel, Mastercard
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employees were able to taste all the different foods and experience the culture. The panel, moderated by Steve Tae, Vice President of Global Business Development at Mastercard, featured incredible AAPI leaders such as Richard Lui, MSNBC news journalist and author, Gabby Hirata, President and CEO of Diane von Furstenberg and Maneesh K. Goyal, Founder of SONA to celebrate culture and discuss their advocacy work as trailblazers. Another campaign I really loved was with a non-profit called NYForever, which was created during COVID to empower New Yorkers in rebuilding the city post-pandemic. City National Bank, which is headquartered in Los Angeles, was looking to have more of an NYC presence, as well as highlight their support for small business owners and the performing arts. We planned a campaign called “Broadway Forever,’’ which was a series of pop-up Broadway performances and PSAs featuring Tony Award Winners. The campaign was really special and was tweeted about by the Mayor, and got picked up by a bunch of press outlets including Gothamist, Time Out New York, Playbill, 6sqft, and Broadway World.
Q: How do corporations benefit from giving back to the community, beyond just doing good work?
A:
There’s been so much research on this and why it’s important. CSR improves workplace morale and employee satisfaction while also creating positive publicity and marketing opportunities. USA Today published an article that says employees are 16% more productive and morale is 55% higher at a company that prioritizes CSR. According to Forbes, 64% of Millennials won’t take a job if their employer doesn’t have a
strong CSR policy and 83% will be more loyal to a company that helps them contribute to social and environmental issues. As I mentioned earlier, Gen Z is the first generation to emphasize purpose over salary in this way. They have grown up with social media and are plugged into the world in a completely unprecedented way. If influencers and brands don’t get involved in this conversation, they will lose business and employees, and get left behind.
Q: Are there any NPOs you feel personally connected to that you want to call out for our audience?
A:
A bunch! Through working at Eat Offbeat, as well as my experience on 9/11 being displaced from my home for three months/having my childhood shaken up, I definitely connect to any organizations that work with refugees, like the UN Refugee Agency or the International Rescue Committee. Regardless of personal experience, I think anyone can empathize with what it feels like to be unsettled and the desire for a safe, stable home. When I worked at Eat Offbeat, I was always so moved by the warmth and kindness of the chefs I worked with. They will always hold a very special place in my heart. I encourage everyone to go check out their Chelsea Market location – the food is delicious. I think I also really connected with the chefs because I’m the daughter of an immigrant; my mom came to the US from the Philippines as a teenager. Because of this, I also feel super drawn to anything involving or supporting the AAPI community, like Welcome to Chinatown and Heart of Joy. I also grew up playing soccer and played in college, so that’s a huge part of my identity.
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Employees are 16% more productive & morale is 55% higher at a company that prioritizes CSR. USA Today
FORBES
64% of Millennials
won’t take a job if their employer doesn’t have a strong CSR policy &
83% will be more loyal to a company that helps them contribute to social and environmental issues. This past year I was introduced to an organization called The Over Under Initiative, which does really cool work making soccer more accessible for children around the country. It was founded by an ex-professional soccer player named Kyle Martino, and he trademarked this technology called “Goalpher” where you can install soccer goals in the ground of basketball courts so that kids can more readily play when there might not be access to field space.
To contact Alex Bushman, email alex@ thebushmangroup.com. **InSite also featured Eat Offbeat in an article back in December 2019, where our Editor-in-Chief, Nick Bornheimer, interviews Manal Kahi: CoreNet- vol2 2019 (flipdocs.com) ** Influencer Social Responsibility ™ is a trademark of The Bushman Group
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Mixing Business with Pleasure, Pleasure with Busine
A
s train station parking lots fill up again and lines form at coffee shops near transit centers, one may ask, “Have we returned to normal? Is commuting worth it again?” Depending on the industry, it can be a resounding “yes” or a definitive “never”. But as the Partnership for New York City noted in January, 52% of workers are back in the office on any given day in New York City. And with 90% coming into the office at least once a week, it seems clear that it must be worth the commute, and I can’t help but ask the questions:
What have we learned? What did we take from this Covid Experiment as part of our new normal? Are we healthier and happier in this new normal? Is the commute worth it for the business, the individual, or both? I personally ask these questions on the Metro-North every day. As an architect, husband, and father of three, I am tasked with keeping both my professional and personal lives organized and in
equilibrium with each other. What I have personally discovered, and what I’m hoping to explore in this article, is where people and offices have found this new equilibrium. My proposition is that only by embracing a life that mixes business with pleasure and pleasure with business will people find their new normal, and ultimately, offices will succeed in encouraging people to return to the office. First, it’s important to understand what people love about their jobs, what they missed during Covid, and what they loved about their homes that they got to explore while sequestered in quarantine. Initially, many found the stress of conference calls with children interrupting in the background frustrating, but people adapted. In WFH, the workforce found a way to take control and merge the home and the office. They were able to do this on their own terms and learned enough to realize the advantages of working from home. And through this learning, also figured out what they were missing. As seen in many vacant downtowns across the country, such as in San Francisco, there is a significant chunk of the workforce who still remain working from home all week. They have found a new equilibrium, and many are content JANUARY 2024 page 20
BY:
Dan Castner, Principal + Life Science Practice Director, Mancini Duffy
ess
SABRINA PAGANI
New office designs are starting to take on more of the comforts of home, such as softer and multiple options for seating, coffee, snacks, quiet zones, and tech-free areas. The desire to be outdoors in nature is seen in biophilic design.
JANUARY 2024 page 21
with their new way of working. While there are repercussions for many downtowns who have entered the “Doom-Loop” created by WFH, one must consider people’s motivations for not returning to the office. Is the commute too long? Have offices not considered how I need to work post-Covid? Are people simply unhappy and looking for a better equilibrium with their jobs? Can the design and policies of the workplace change people’s motivations and perspectives? In my job, I love connecting with others in the industry. I’m in business development because I enjoy discovering what is important to people and figuring out if I can help them in some way. This includes finding common ground, utilizing my business network groups and organizations to connect, and hopefully meeting people who need architectural design in the process.
replaced with plants and organic materials to buffer spaces. Plant watering, watering systems, and third-party plant maintenance are becoming more customary procedures among office facilities managers. Furniture is evolving as the workplace adapts to new behaviors. Identical desks and standard conference rooms are being replaced with a variety of furniture types to accommodate the diverse workforce. During the pandemic, some of us were more comfortable working from our bedrooms, while others in kitchens or living rooms. Office desks are beginning to reflect this variety. The idea of traditional conference rooms is giving way to multiple configurations, but typically with smaller inperson groups. A/V and acoustics are even more critical, with most meetings taking place with some portion being remote.
So what did we learn?
Marc Spector, owner of Spector Group, discussed the evolution of design in workplace in the Anti-Architect Podcast, episode 49. He dubbed the new employee environment “Lifespace”, a hybrid of both the digital and the physical where people come together to connect, collaborate, and create. Spector noted that not only should productivity and engagement be considered in office design, but individual happiness has to be a component of any workplace strategy’s success.
Sabrina Pagani, Workplace Strategist at Savills, insists that new office designs are starting to take on more of the comforts of home, such as softer and multiple options for seating, coffee, snacks, quiet zones, and techfree areas. The desire to be outdoors in nature is seen in biophilic design. Pagani notes that interior offices are incorporating garden paths connecting interior office departments, which act like unique neighborhoods. In many cases, walls and hard materials are being
Beyond the design of the space, some workplaces are making an effort to change habits and promote the healthier lifestyles people have become accustomed to at home. Evelyn Lee, head of Workplace Innovation at Slack, notes that while their teams remain predominantly remote, they encourage their teams to “Talk and Walk” when they meet in person. With many remote, the need for large conference rooms is being replaced with the need for better defined rules of etiquette for
At home on weekends, I enjoy spending time outdoors, taking long walks, and sitting by a backyard fire pit. I also enjoy learning about and tasting red wine. During Covid, these activities either revolved around a bubble of neighbors we formed in our own village, or we forced them to take place with our friends and family over Zoom since quarantine wouldn’t allow face-to-face.
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●
MARC SPECTOR
He dubbed the new employee environment “Lifespace”, a hybrid of both the digital and the physical where people come together to connect, collaborate, and create.
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those on camera for conference calls, limiting consecutive meetings, and insisting on break times and blocks set aside in the calendar for heads-down activity. It is also clear that one size does not fit all, and each industry is finding its own path to coming back together. The August 7, 2023, New York edition of Crains notes that while inperson tech events have drastically increased in attendance, office vacancy rates are still way up in that sector. The article notes that while New York is now leading the country in tech, that industry continues to be “Real Estate Agnostic.” While tech headquarters remain unpopulated and their workforces remain remote, the offices where the tech industry overlaps with other sectors, such as financial services, have had to adapt to the hybrid culture. Outside of office hours, workplace leaders are also recognizing the need to build camaraderie through extra-curricular activities. Hobby clubs may include cooking, reading, exercise, crafts, sports, and outdoor interests. Pagaini notes that there may also be a generational gap in terms of the hobbies individuals choose. The older generation may value singular activities, while the younger tend to enjoy hobbies that involve collaboration. Ultimately, as Forbes suggested on July 28, 2021, the workforce has clearly shifted. Office managers need to consider how hobbies can contribute to the collaborative spirit and ultimately be incorporated into the office culture. It may seem like there is no single right answer to how leadership can bring people back to the office. Some organizations are acting like the fictional government in the Radiohead video “If You Say the Word”. In this case, government “wranglers” are out in the countryside capturing grazing “professionals” out in the wild and dropping them back into office environments. The video acts as a humorous metaphor for how some organizations are forcing an RTO or Return to Office, without trying to learn anything in the process.
Other organizations attempt to create an atmosphere of FOMO or Fear Of Missing Out to encourage return. One particular confidential media company located in Manhattan already had a basketball net, pool tables, foosball, shuffleboard, hammocks, and outdoor terraces prior to Covid. Now that they are shifting to two and three days a week, after-work parties with alcohol are becoming common to dislodge people from their basements and dining rooms. But examples like these and scenes from the Apple TV+ series We Crashed showing the continuous party culture at WeWork remind us of an important truth: perhaps not everyone needs parties and festivals in the office. Some people like to work. Some people are not interested in the isolation of working in a basement and are simply looking for offices to adapt and evolve with the times and shifting generational ideals. They find the camaraderie and the fulfillment of years of learning enough motivation to get out of their bed and their pajamas. And ultimately, the chemistry of their office makes the commute worthwhile. We don’t have to pretend we’re going to a beach party to have fun. It is true that mixing business with pleasure and pleasure with business may not be for everyone. Multiple articles on the internet provide examples of why everyone should be careful with this approach to living. The balance within each of us may be different. But, as facility managers and real estate executives plan for the future, diverse environments with multiple-pronged policies encouraging interaction and collaboration appear to make the most sense. Personally, If I am able to mix a wine tasting in with my networking, the gap between the office and the backyard fire pits closes a little bit. Injecting my own life into my professional goals seems to make them easier to accomplish. Essentially, I’m looking to do the opposite of Adam Scott’s character from the Apple TV+ show Severance where he completely severs his work memories from his mind when he leaves the office. Much like JANUARY 2024 page 24
●
DAN CASTNER
If I can move a conference call to the High Line or that introductory meet and greet from Starbucks to a nearby park, it dials the stress down a little. Offices need to understand that happiness can’t be forced, and multiple solutions for personal interaction will be necessary to encourage a diverse workforce to return—gladly on their own terms.
the trend to remove physical partitions from our offices, the removal of partitions from our own lives may serve as a path to personal satisfaction and a worthwhile commute. If I can move a conference call to the High Line or that introductory meet and greet from Starbucks to a nearby park, it dials the stress down a little. Offices need to understand that happiness can’t be forced, and multiple solutions for personal interaction will be necessary to encourage a diverse workforce to return—gladly on their own terms.
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BY:
Google Bard
The ptimism f New Y rkers With all of the talk about AI, we decided to put it to the test for this issue of InSite with the request to “Write me an article on the optimism of New Yorkers.” You can find the unedited piece here.
New York City is a city of contrasts. It is a city of skyscrapers and slums, of wealth and poverty, of diversity and division. But it is also a city of optimism. Despite all of the challenges that New Yorkers face, they remain hopeful. They believe in the city and in themselves. They believe that anything is possible in New York. There are many reasons why New Yorkers are so optimistic. One reason is that the city is constantly changing and evolving. There is always something new to see and do in New York. The city is full of people from all over the world, each with their own unique perspective and story. This diversity and dynamism is one of the things that makes New York so special. Another reason for New York’s optimism is the city’s resilience. New York has been through a lot over the years, including the Great Depression, the 9/11 attacks, and the COVID-19 pandemic. But each time, the city has bounced back stronger than before. This resilience is a testament to the spirit of the New York people. New Yorkers are also known for their perseverance. They are not afraid of hard work or challenges. They are determined to succeed, no matter what obstacles they face. JANUARY 2024 page 26
face of adversity. We are also more likely to take risks and try new things. Optimism is also good for our health. Studies have shown that optimistic people tend to live longer and healthier lives. They are also more likely to be successful in their careers and relationships.
How to be more optimistic
If you are looking to be more optimistic, there are a few things you can do:
This perseverance is one of the things that makes New York such a vibrant and exciting city. Here are a few examples of New York’s optimism in action: • After the 9/11 attacks, New Yorkers came together to rebuild their city and support each other. • During the COVID-19 pandemic, New Yorkers volunteered their time and donated money to help those in need. • In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, New Yorkers worked together to clean up their neighborhoods and help their neighbors. • These are just a few examples of the many ways in which New Yorkers have shown their optimism in times of crisis. New Yorkers are a resilient and hopeful people, and their optimism is one of the things that makes the city so special.
Why is optimism important?
• Focus on the positive. When things are going wrong, it is easy to get caught up in the negative. But try to focus on the things that are going well, even if they are small things. • Surround yourself with positive people. The people you spend time with can have a big impact on your outlook on life. Make sure to surround yourself with people who are positive and supportive. • Practice gratitude. Taking the time to appreciate the good things in your life can help you to be more optimistic. Try to write down a few things you are grateful for each day. • Help others. Helping others is a great way to feel good about yourself and to make a difference in the world. When you help others, you are also reminding yourself of the good in the world. Optimism is a choice. It is something that we can all cultivate. If you want to be more optimistic, simply start by focusing on the positive, surrounding yourself with positive people, practicing gratitude, and helping others.
Optimism is important because it can help us to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. When we believe that things will work out, we are more likely to persevere in the JANUARY 2024 page 27
Wanda Dunaway Bleeker Street “6” Subway Station
As I ascend on the escalator, the shifting neon hexagons of the LED light sculpture, “Hive” always bring a smile to my face and a sense of wonder to something as mundane as a subway station.
NYC Happy Places
Anna Ferkingstad The New York City Ferry
After ten years in New York, I can definitively say the ferry is the superior way to navigate the city. A cheap beer and roof seat make for one of my favorite vantage points of the city skyline.
There’s nowhere in the world quite like New York City. See the places across the boroughs that feed the optimistic outlook of our InSite committee members.
Stefany Koslow — The Creative Little Garden
Filled with delightful little sculptures, benches, and arches, “The Creative Little Garden, is a community backyard and an oasis of tranquility in New York’s East Village. JANUARY 2024 page 28
Courtney Grill Central Park
I love the outdoors, and Central Park is an oasis in the concrete jungle where you can escape the business of the city.
Jennifer Busch Queensboro Bridge
Also known as the 59th St. Bridge, this massive, intricate steel structure both fascinates and frightens me (for its very time worn appearance). But a drive across the bridge from Queens– especially at golden hour–affords one of the most breathtaking views of Manhattan that calls out “slow down, you move too fast”--and not just because of the traffic.
Dan Castner Grand Central Terminal
Seeing the constellations on the ceiling of the great hall of Grand Central reminds you that there are things greater than yourself that are at play here. It’s both humbling and also empowering.
Nick Bornheimer Domino Park in Williamsburg
It’s almost like a culmination of the expected and the unexpected this city has to offer.
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In-Person Events
June 2023 - November 2023
PropTech Committee: x Sustainability Committee: NYSERDA PropTech Product Showcase April 26, 2023 The CoreNet NYC PropTech and Sustainability Committees, in partnership with the New York State Energy Research & Development Agency (NYSERDA), presented an in-person PropTech Showcase Speed Dating event. Together, they curated five companies focused on sustainability to feature their products and value propositions in a fun and dynamic format. Attendees voted on which company led the charge as the most impactful.
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Strategy & Portfolio Planning: My Landlord Is Facing Financial Distress May 11, 2023 Given changing demand patterns and capital market turmoil, our previous reality posed challenges for corporate real estate leaders in navigating these issues and protecting their occupancies while delivering an appropriate user experience. Our panel of senior end-users, capital markets experts, and an attorney discussed strategies for managing through that environment and distress scenarios for properties in your portfolios.
Career Development x Young Leader Committee: Insights Discovery
Special Events Committee: 2023 Golf Outing July 17, 2023 The CoreNet NYC Special Events Committee hosted its highly anticipated Annual Golf Outing at the prestigious Century Country Club and Old Oaks Country Club in Purchase. The event brought together key industry leaders, executives, and professionals for a day of networking, friendly competition, and collaboration in a picturesque setting. The outing surpassed all expectations, cementing its reputation as a premier event in the commercial real estate community. The CoreNet NYC Annual Golf Outing served as a platform for participants to connect, foster new relationships, and exchange valuable insights in an informal and relaxed environment. The event attracted a diverse group of attendees, including corporate real estate executives, service providers, developers, brokers, and professionals from various sectors of the industry. The highly anticipated event was attended by over 300 leading professionals in the real estate and construction industry, as well as CoreNet NYC members and leadership, making it one of the largest industry golf outings.
May 18, 2023 Attendees participated in a 2-hour workshop, and through the Insights Discovery training, participants began to recognize traits and tendencies in their colleagues and were able to modify their own behavior, which led to improved collaboration, communication, and teamwork. Investing in this training gave participants awareness of their own styles in both conscious and less conscious scenarios and fostered improved interpersonal relationships both personally and professionally.
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Special Events Committee: 2023 Golf Outing (Continued from page 31)
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Event Recap Women’s Leadership Committee: Annual Summer Networking Reception August 8, 2023 CoreNet NYC Women’s Leadership Committee was excited to be back hosting its highly anticipated Annual Summer Networking event at the beautiful Steelcase Showroom Terrace. All CoreNet members were encouraged to attend! Attendees enjoyed a fun evening at an incredible venue to enjoy socializing and drinks with CoreNet friends and guests.
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Event Recap Membership Committee: Prospective Volunteer Breakfast: Discover Committee Opportunities August 17, 2023 The Membership Committee hosted their Prospective Volunteer Mixer. Volunteering provides a unique opportunity to participate in the CoreNet NYC community. Attendees had a chance to learn about the various CoreNet NYC Committees and mingle with fellow members.
End User Forum: Accenture Office Tour + Metaverse Experience September 7, 2023
space, the technology, and the overall experience created for their employees, guests, and clients. In addition to the tour, there was a session introducing the Metaverse experience and the technology they were using as part of their evolving technology tools landscape.
We were excited to host a tour of Accenture’s flagship Innovation Hub at 1 Manhattan West. During the tour, attendees had the opportunity to learn about the
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Public Policy x University Relations Committee: Tour of West End Labs September 13, 2023 The Public Policy and University Relations Committee hosted the West End Labs (WEL) Building tour. This facility was originally designed in the 1920s as a Chrysler Corporation automotive showroom and repair facility, and the space has been transformed into a state-of-the-art laboratory and research facility with cutting-edge systems and sought-after city views and amenities. The project features prebuilt lab suites to serve the growing life science community in New York City. Building amenities include a 300-person conference and event center, a landscaped rooftop terrace with views of the Hudson River, and one of the building’s most distinctive features: a spiral auto ramp once used to move cars from floor to floor which is being reimagined as “The Helix,” a communal collaboration and meeting space which highlights the building’s unique history. The building was redeveloped by Taconic, LaSalle, and Nuveen. Matthew Malone, Senior Vice President of Life Sciences at Taconic gave the tour.
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Young Leaders Committee: Fall Social September 28, 2023 The Young Leaders Committee hosted their Fall Social, which was held inside and on the patio of the Interface Showroom in Midtown! Participants had a chance to catch up with old friends and made new connections over a delectable offering of drinks and appetizers.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee: Universal Design: Space for All October 11, 2023 Evolving from barrier-free design concepts in the 1960s, the term Universal Design was coined by the American architect Robert Mace in the 1980s. Since then, the concept has crossed from architecture to product design, guided by seven founding principles aimed at creating the same opportunities and spaces for all persons without adaptations. Attendees joined a discussion on how companies are implementing Universal Design today in reinventing their offices to support accessibility and use for all humans. This was an accessible event to those with hearing impairment which also included an ASL interpreter as part of the panel.
Special Events Committee: 2023 REmmy’s Gala November 15, 2022 The First Annual REmmys Gala brought together over 600 esteemed professionals from the corporate real estate industry, making the gathering one of the largest real estate events of the year. Awards were presented in four distinct categories, recognizing excellence and influence within the corporate real estate sector.The awards were presented by Linda Foggie, Managing Director, Global Head of Real Estate Operations at Citi; Jaime Fuertes, Managing Director, Global Head of Corporate Services at Apollo Global Management Inc. and Larry Charlip, President of the CoreNet NYC Chapter. CoreNet NYC proudly congratulates the 2023 Corporate Real Estate Awards for Excellence winners:
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Corporate Real Estate Executive of the Year Winner Philip Pitruzzello, Managing Director, BlackRock Service Provider of the Year Winner Katie Nilsen, Vice President, E-J Electric Installation Company Young Leader of the Year Mike Martino, Solutions Engineer, CBRE Project of the Year – Under 25,000 Square Feet The Playground Studios Architecture Project of the Year – 26,000 – 36,000 Square Feet Arch Manhattan IA Interior Architects Project of the Year – 37,000 – 50,000 Square Feet 1 Willoughby Square FXCollaborative Project of the Year– 50,000 – 85,000 Square Feet Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas) NBBJ Project of the Year– 90,000 – 150,000 Square Feet City Harvest’s Cohen Community Food Rescue Center Ennead Architects Project of the Year– Over 300,000 Square Feet BlackRock NBBJ
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Special Events Committee: 2023 REmmy’s Gala (Continued from page 39)
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Event Recap ESG Committee: Design for Freedom: Limiting Forced Labor in the Built Environment November 2, 2023 Industry experts shared their insights and experiences on the challenges and opportunities of addressing forced labor in the building materials supply chain. Our keynote speaker was Fast Company Award Winning Sharon Prince, Founder & CEO of Grace Farms and the initiator of Design for Freedom, a movement that aims to eliminate forced labor from the built environment. Along with Hayes Slade of Slade Architecture, she discussed a repositioning project and the Design for Freedom Pilot process and toolkit, which offers practical guidance and resources on how to educate ourselves, commit to change, and implement ethical sourcing practices in our work.
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Sponsorship Committee: Sponsor Appreciation Reception November 7, 2023 The CoreNet NYC Board of Directors gathered for an evening of networking with our Annual Sponsors to thank them for their commitment to the Chapter and celebrate the successes of the year.
Strategy & Portfolio Planning: Future of NYC Resiliency and the Future of Work November 14, 2023 This event offered a unique opportunity to discuss New York’s role as a talent magnet and the drivers needed to continue attracting and retaining the best people. The panel brought together research on macro-economic forces shaping NYCs talent landscape, what criteria CRE occupiers look for in selecting sites, and how NYC can continue to draw employers to the city. This event aimed to foster peer-to-peer discussions between leaders in NYC real estate, business, talent, and urban planning.
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Patrick Steffens, Director, Avison Young John Sadlon, Managing Principal, Perkins&Will Philip Pitruzzello, Managing Director, BlackRock Inc. Ryan Simonetti, CEO and Co-Founder, Convene
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Upcoming Events Membership Committee: Breakfast Club: CoreNet Tips & Tricks Coffee Hour
January 18
End User Forum: Workplace Evolutionaries: Who is Winning the Workplace Evolution
January 24
Women’s Leadership x DEI Committee: Microaggressions in the Workplace
January 25
Membership Committee: Breakfast Club: CoreNet Tips & Tricks Coffee Hour
February 15
Golf Outing
July 15
REmmys Gala
September 26
VIEW THE UPCOMING EVENTS ONLINE
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to our sponsors
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THANK TO OUR YOU SPONSORS.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS XBE SPONSOR
PLATINUM SPONSORS
P R OJ ECT & COST MANAGERS
GOLD SPONSORS
JANUARY 2024 page 46
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS The Switzer Group
JRM Construction
Turner Construction
Avison Young
Highland Associates
HDR, Inc.
Swinerton
L&K Partners
Syska Hennessy Group
BRONZE SPONSORS CCA Metro
FCA
LBA Realty
AFD Contract Furniture Inc
HLW
USL Technology
JANUARY 2024 page 47
GET TO KNOW SOME OF OUR PLATINUM SPONSORS INSIDESOURCE With a diverse collection of designers, account managers, PMs, installers and strategists, we are dedicated to transforming not only how people work but how they feel about work. From our start in 1991, Insidesource has been built on collaborative relationships. Your dedicated project team partners with you to understand and solve your unique workspace needs, and is with you at every step of the process. We want to create a space that is inspired by you. Building the modern workplace requires creative thinking to reflect the values of a company in a way that connects with employees and drives productivity. From balancing open collaborative environments with private spaces, down to pillows and accessories, we’ll explore every avenue to bring your soul and cultural vibe to every last detail. We have grown as our clients have grown. From first offices to millions of square feet we have expertise in every market around the world. We measure success by enduring relationships and trust our client’s place in our hands to bring their vision to life.
TURNER & TOWNSEND Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 10,000 people in 50 countries. Collaborating with our clients across real estate, infrastructure and natural resources sectors, we specialize in major programmes, programme management, cost and commercial management, net zero and digital solutions.We are majorityowned by CBRE Group, Inc., the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with our partners holding a significant minority interest. Turner & Townsend and CBRE work together to provide clients with the premier programme, project and cost management offering in markets around the world. We are passionate about making the difference, transforming performance for a green, inclusive and productive world.
VVA P R OJ ECT & COST MANAGERS
VVA was founded in New York City in 1994 and has grown steadily to establish offices in Washington, D.C., New Jersey, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Connecticut, and Chicago. We represent domestic and international clients with a local presence wherever your project may be. VVA’s key strengths include the seniority and diversity of our team, exceptional industry knowledge, skilled leadership, and seasoned in-house expertise. VVA’s many years of experience in all project and cost management disciplines gives us an insider’s understanding of the role each plays, the connections among them, and the potential for adding maximum value for our clients
TED MOUDIS ASSOCIATES Ted Moudis Associates designs workplaces that provide sustainable environments and flexible workplace solutions built for longevity, productivity, and enjoyment. We believe that a built space should not only reflect but also enhance an organization’s culture and values. Businesses today face an unprecedented mix of social, economic, environmental, and technological challenges. Our diverse staff of multi-disciplinary experts in the fields of architecture & interior design, workplace strategy, change management, brand integration, and furniture coordination help our clients to meet these challenges.
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CREATIVE OFFICE RESOURCES Creative Office Resources was established when two industry leaders, Creative Office Pavilion and Office Resources, merged in January 2022. As the largest MillerKnoll dealer in the country, COR is dedicated to shaping spaces that inspire collaboration and evolve communities. We’re in the business of creating well-designed spaces that shape culture and inspire community. We work with talented individuals who are seasoned and knowledgeable about the way people will exist in a space, and our process ensures solution-driven design. We thrive through collaboration by listening and integrating diverse perspectives. Our primary goal is to build comfortable, positive environments designed to empower employees. We are not in the business of selling furniture, we are in the business of building solutions that enable your employees to do your best work.
STRUCTURE TONE For over 50 years we’ve built amazing spaces for our clients, and it’s as rewarding as ever. We love tackling each project’s challenges, solving the puzzles they bring, and building relationships with colleagues new and old, of all industries, with each project we take on. We provide a complete range of services, from site selection analysis, design constructability review and aesthetic enhancements to interior fit-outs, new building construction, and building infrastructure upgrades and modernization. Our secret sauce has always been our “client first” mentality. Regardless of the project size or scope, our commitment is first to our client and their vision, enabling them to set new standards in building efficiency and sustainability, or in employee wellness and productivity, or in-patient care or technology—or whatever their goals may be.
MOHAWK GROUP Mohawk Group is committed to building and serving communities through human-centered design, equity and social enterprise. As the world’s leading producer and distributor of quality commercial flooring, we believe that better floor coverings emerge from better design, innovation, and sustainability. We believe in better: better design, better innovation, better sustainability. We believe that design is an agent of change for the greater good and we strive to elevate design by amplifying active measures for sustaining people, place, and planet.
TURTON BOND Proudly founded in 2019, we are an independent construction consultancy service which brings a wealth of experience across all sectors in the construction industry. At Turton Bond we take a modern approach to what is often cited as a traditional and outmoded profession. Delivering a best in class, tailored and industry leading consultancy model to our clients. Our focus is to help our clients gain the maximum value out of their projects, while minimizing risk and providing a best in class work product that is both accessible and understandable. Having previously worked for several large-scale consultancy services over the past two decades, founding partners Will Turton & Chris Bond feel strongly that things can and should be done differently. With a strong focus on the embracing of technology, and the development of web-based apps accessible by our clients, we feel we can make a real difference.
CORGAN At Corgan, we use data and dialogue to design places that perform with functional, technical, and aesthetic excellence. We’re an employee-owned firm driven by research that informs elevated user experiences, and insights that anticipate a rapidly changing world. It’s how we design structures and spaces that reach beyond our clients’ initial goals. We’re creators, designers, and innovators, making the world we want to live in — from the kind of firm we embody, to designs that collectively impact hundreds of thousands of people every day. For us, research is a means to channel the future, and sketchbooks are a playground to explore how we can shape it. When the right ideas and innovations emerge, they become powerful instruments for change. JANUARY 2024 page 49
WB WOOD Founded in 1905, WB Wood is a Haworth Best in Class Dealer and a prominent furniture service provider and management company in the United States and around the world. If you’re moving into a new workspace — or your existing office needs an update — WB Wood is here for you. We’re a prominent furniture service provider and project management company dedicated to providing enhanced, human-focused office furniture solutions to companies around the United States. Our offices are based in New York and New Jersey, but we provide office design and project management services to clients nationwide. From Juniata, Alaska, to Tampa, Florida, you can count on us for top-tier service and superb quality.
EVENSONBEST We understand your challenge. We deliver your solution.We know that you’re building more than an office. You’re transforming your business to foster workplace innovation, change your organization’s culture and communicate your brand image.As a MillerKnoll dealer, we guide leaders to make confident, intelligent office furniture decisions. Then we take the lead to deliver the space you’ve envisioned with the service you expect. We specialize in complex projects, building our reputation on unwavering advocacy for and accountability to our clients from start to finish. EvensonBest is one of the top ten largest volume contract furniture dealerships in North America, with an install base of completed projects totaling more than $3 billion. Our staff of more than 200 experienced professionals gives you access to experts in multiple market sectors and geographic regions. We’ve completed projects in all 50 states through three regional offices, numerous service offices, and our network of trusted installation partners.
COLLIERS Colliers (NASDAQ, TSX: CIGI) is a leading diversified professional services and investment management company. With operations in 65 countries, our 18,000 enterprising professionals work collaboratively to provide expert real estate and investment advice to clients.For more than 28 years, our experienced leadership with significant inside ownership has delivered compound annual investment returns of approximately 20% for shareholders. With annual revenues of $4.5 billion and $98 billion of assets under management, Colliers maximizes the potential of property and real assets to accelerate the success of our clients, our investors and our people.
CBRE Our mission is to realize the potential of our clients, professionals and partners by building the real estate solutions of the future. We are the global leader in commercial real estate services and investments. With services, insights and data that span every dimension of the industry, we create solutions for clients of every size, in every sector and across every geography. From instilling confidence in today’s decisions to re-imagining tomorrow’s spaces, we thrive in complex and ever-changing environments. With deep market knowledge, superior data and proprietary technology, our multidimensional perspective helps you use real estate to transform your business and find greater success. At CBRE, we take our leadership role in the real estate industry to heart. So we’ve made responsible practices the foundation of our global operations.
NEWMARK Newmark Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: NMRK), together with its subsidiaries (“Newmark”), is a world leader in commercial real estate, seamlessly powering every phase of the property life cycle. Newmark’s services and products include real estate brokerage, leasing, capital markets (including investment sales), global corporate services, industrial and logistics services, landlord representation, multifamily, property management, retail services, tenant representation, valuation and advisory services, real estate management technology systems, workplace and occupancy strategy, consulting, project management, and lease administration. Newmark also offers government sponsored enterprise lending, loan servicing, debt and structured finance and loan sales. Newmark enhances these services and products through innovative real estate technology solutions and data analytics designed to enable its clients to increase their efficiency and profits by optimizing their real estate portfolio. JANUARY 2024 page 50
GARDINER & THEOBALD INC. G&T is an independent construction and property consultancy working across all sectors of the built environment. We focus on minimizing risk and creating opportunities to maximize the value of our clients’ developments and property assets. We deliver Project Leadership, Commercial Success, Construction Excellence and Specialist Consultancy working across all sectors of the built environment. Our people are some of the most respected and highly trained in the industry. We ensure that we remain leaders in our field by investing in learning and development for everyone across the firm.G&T is one of the most ethical firms in the built environment. Each year the firm and individuals support charitable causes through our social impact programme giving back to the communities we help to build.
TISHMAN SPEYER At Tishman Speyer, we are more than just a real estate company. We focus on unlocking human potential through the communities we build in across the globe. Tishman Speyer completes one of China’s largest real estate transactions in 2022 At Tishman Speyer, we are building a better tomorrow. For us, real estate is more than buildings. We focus on the intersections that matter most. The intersection of real estate and people, real estate and technology, real estate and your local neighborhood. We deliver what you need to make your life better.
CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD What began as a small family business in New York more than 100 years ago, is now a leading global real estate services firm that delivers exceptional value for real estate occupiers and owners. Our iconic brand and approximately 53,000 people operate across approximately 400 offices in 60 countries. And from Silver Court in Shanghai to the Sears Tower in Chicago to all that comes next, our clients are at the center of all we do. We believe that ‘life is what we make it’. That’s why we make an impact with everything we do, all around the world. Our purpose inspires us: We make an impact.
ROCKEFELLER GROUP We are passionate about real estate, and committed to outstanding outcomes for our customers, partners and communities. Founded in 1928 in Manhattan, Rockefeller Group traces its roots to Rockefeller Center, a singular and visionary project that continues to inspire our nearly century-long commitment to the development of extraordinary properties and the creation of exceptional experiences. Our team is driven by the idea that quality in the built environment can positively shape lives at home, at work and in our communities. Our mission is to develop, own and operate extraordinary properties, delivering exceptional experiences and financial performance while creating value for our partners, customers and communities.
RELATED COMPANIES Widely recognized as one of the most innovative and prolific developers in the U.S., we are dedicated to the highest standards of all aspects of the real estate equation. To ensure our vision is realized, we offer in-house expertise that spans every discipline including site identification and assembly, zoning and entitlements, financing, master planning, design, construction, marketing, leasing and sales. Our capabilities include residential development ranging from affordable and workforce housing to luxury rental and for-sale residences; large format retail development; hotel and hospitality opportunities; office development; and unparalleled expertise incorporating all of these uses, along with verdant and reflective open spaces, into dynamic city centers. JUNE 2023 page 51
HAWORTH Haworth leads with design. Learning and innovation spur us to deliver the best workplace solutions. We collaborate with our partners and clients from around the world to bring broad perspectives and creative solutions to our Organic Workspace approach. This multicultural tapestry of ideas gives us a truly global outlook. We design, source, and manufacture products in the regions where we sell them. This process gives us greater agility and more sustainability. Haworth tailors its products and services for distinct cultures and client preferences around the world.
MILLERKNOLL MillerKnoll is a collective of dynamic brands that comes together to design the world we live in. Together, we form an unparalleled platform for building a more sustainable, caring, equitable, and beautiful world. We’ve never been afraid to do things differently. That’s why we’re taking on the biggest challenges facing our global community. We’re pushing design forward to build a brighter future—and making sure everybody’s included. Our brands are united by a belief that through design, we can create a better world. Our care shows up in everything we do—from the spaces and products we make to the ways we think and actions we take.
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JANUARY 2024
THE OPTIMISM ISSUE