The map of law firm offices is shifting east. Arnold & Porter announced today that it has entered into a 20-year lease agreement for 375,000 square feet in a new development at 601 Massachusetts Avenue.
The firm aims to move into its new digs in October 2015, pulling up the roots from 555 12th Street N.W., where it has been since 1995.
The firm considered a number of development projects in addition to the possibility of remaining in its current location, managing partner Richard Alexander said. "We've been looking for close to a year and had entered into a letter of intent a few months ago," he said. "It was a fairly extensive process."
The existing Massachussetts Avenue building, occupied by National Public Radio, would be demolished to make room for the new, 11-story development, Alexander said. He added that the firm shrank its footprint in taking 375,000 square-feet at its future home. Despite the small footprint, Alexander said, the space would accommodate future growth in headcount.
The project will give the firm flexibility in its design; allow it to better leverage technology; and provide better light penetration, Alexander said. He declined to comment on financial specifics of the lease.
McDermott Will & Emery's recent move to Capitol Hill, coupled with Covington & Burling's signing of a lease at CityCenterDC, signal that more firms are willing to expand the map.
"Given the height limitations and the availability of space in the more traditional areas, it's not surprising that law firms are moving more eastward," Alexander said.
Comments