DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN — Brooklyn isn't just for artisanal pickles and locally brewed beer anymore. Downtown Brooklyn has more than 17 million square feet of office space and a burgeoning tech scene — and the remaining space is renting fast.
The vacancy rate in Downtown Brooklyn had dropped to 5.9 percent, down from 6.8 percent this time last year, a report published by Newmark Grubb Knight Frank found.
That proves Brooklyn is quickly becoming a destination spot for business, according to the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership.
"With a historic and vibrant shopping center, a burgeoning residential community, 11 colleges and universities, nearly 50 arts and entertainment groups, a professional sports franchise, and exceptional public transportation and open spaces, it’s no wonder that many creative and tech companies are choosing to grow their businesses here," a Partnership official said.
Tech companies are quickly claiming Brooklyn space, but there are still some gems available to rent. The Partnership recently compiled a list of the area's top 10 hottest office spaces.
1) Metropolitan Exchange at 33 Flatbush Ave.
“To walk the floors of this seven-story building is to enter a mind-boggling world of carousel horses, antique furniture, and a diverse array of start-ups,” noted the Partnership. “This is the perfect creative incubator to nurture your idea to reality. Plus, the rooftop boasts its own garden and aquaponics installation. For more information, contact Al Attara at 718-858-7979.
2) Clocktower Building at 325 Gold St.
“Boasting a newly renovated 14,000-square-foot space with 15-foot ceilings and a penthouse loft with freight access (not to mention stellar views of Manhattan), the historic Clocktower Building is well-suited for a tech manufacturer in need of roomy production space,” noted the Partnership. This is where highly successful online marketplace, Etsy got its start. For more information, contact Rob Iannucci at 718-596-0504.
3) MetroTech Center
MetroTech Center neighbors include major corporations like Chase, and tech notables like MakerBot, plus media giant El Diario La Prensa. Plus, the commons in the center of the complex is a great place to grab lunch surrounded by trees and art provided by the Public Art Fund. For more information, contact Ali Esmaeilzadeh at 718-923-5302.
4) Brooklyn Renaissance Plaza at 335 Adams St.
With the Marriott Hotel on the ground floors, “the Brooklyn Renaissance Plaza is an ideal location to set up your East Coast office and host out-of-towners from your home base.” For more information, contact Stan Markowitz at 718-263-3800.
5) Green Desk at 147 Prince St.
The space is great for a start-up looking for a small space and affordable rent. Rates include access to a kitchen, storage and a conference room. For more information, contact Dana at 718-412-8450.
6) Upper Floors of Fulton & Livingston Streets
Office space above retailers such as Express and Macy’s provide moldable spaces for companies with vision and some time and money to put into an upgrade. For more information, contact Tom Conoscenti at 718-403-1647.
7) City Point at 1 DeKalb Ave.
City Point, Downtown Brooklyn’s newest addition, is shiny and pretty to look at on the outside and the inside. Armani Exchange is coming soon and the newly activated Albee Square is right below. For more information, contact Laurence Roberts at 212-906-9090.
8) 16 Court St.
It's right across from Borough Hall, and every possible subway line is close by. Plus, Montague Street is right around the corner for a delicious lunch. For more information, contact Robert Hebron at 718-625-0011.
9) 25 Elm Place
This building “currently serves as home to the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, Independence Care System, and an 1199 SEIU Employment Center.” Plus renters have the accessibility of several subway stations and great food. For more information, contact Robert Hebron at 718-625-0011.
10) 408 Jay St.
This space is just steps from NYU-Poly’s Center for Urban Science and Progress available. Plus, renters can benefit from The Freelancers Union, which has a yoga studio in the same building. For more information, contact Joe Jemal at 212-239-8580.
