JLL opens innovative workplace at Legacy Union in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (March 22, 2021) – JLL today announced the opening of its new office at 650 S Tryon at Legacy Union in Uptown Charlotte. Spanning nearly two floors and 41,000 square feet at the mixed-use development, this new office space represents a major expansion for the Charlotte team, which has grown 47% year over year since 2019. JLL’s Jaime Boast, Bryan White and Chris Schaaf represented JLL in the deal.

JLL Charlotte’s new location consolidates four offices spread throughout the city, bringing together 150 professionals in a larger and more collaborative setting. The space can accommodate up to 200 employees, with additional options for future expansions available. With its primary office formerly located in Southpark, JLL’s new office also represents a move from the suburbs to Charlotte’s city center.

“Collaboration and teamwork are essential to our success, and bringing all of our Charlotte-based employees together under one roof will create new opportunities to exchange ideas and expertise across business lines,” said Chase Monroe, JLL Carolinas Market Director. “Our new location places us in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, bringing us closer to clients and situating us among some of the Southeast’s most acclaimed businesses. Post-COVID, the energy of Uptown’s booming business district, vibrant arts scene, thrilling sports venues and scenic parks will return and create a work environment where our employees feel inspired and engaged, and we’re excited to grow our team here.”

Designed by Gensler and inspired by JLL’s Human Experience report, the new office space prioritizes the changes in workforce dynamics and is designed to encourage collaboration, creativity, productivity and flexibility. The space will feature flexible furniture selections that can be reconfigured based on need, as well as floor plans that allow for social distancing, enhanced collaboration for in-person and remote workers and easy movement throughout the space. A thoughtful collection of local artwork will adorn the walls and views of the skyline will flood the office with natural light. Charlotte-based general contractor Rodgers Builders was tapped to bring the space to life and JLL’s Project and Development Services group oversaw the build-out.

As a part of JLL's commitment to sustainability and wellness, the new office will pursue both LEED Gold and WELL Silver certifications. While LEED focuses on sustainability within the building’s materials and processes, WELL seeks to increase employee productivity and happiness through biophilic design and wellness features. These efforts also include a significant investment to equip the office with the latest technology, allowing for enhanced efficiency and flexibility for employees.

“Expanding into a new office space during a global pandemic comes with many challenges, but we are fortunate to have the opportunity to deliver a brand-new space that reflects the future of office design. We were deliberate to implement certain functions that will drive innovation for the workplace in a post-COVID world. As a leader in commercial real estate, it’s our job to pave the way when it comes to reshaping the workplace, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to share our learnings with clients following the move to Uptown,” Monroe continued. “This year has accentuated the importance of flexibility and open communication with our employees, and we continue to put the wellness and safety of our people first, so each of our team members feel comfortable and confident upon their return to the office.”

March 2021 marks 10 years since JLL’s acquisition of Keystone Partners, a firm cofounded by Monroe, Pete Pittroff, Brad Cherry and Jim Thorp. This merger increased JLL’s market share in the Carolinas dramatically. Today, JLL Charlotte’s growing team spans seven business lines, including Corporate Solutions, Tenant Representation, Landlord Representation, Capital Markets, Property Management, Project and Development Services, and JLL Technologies.

Charlotte has remained a top market for corporate relocations and expansions throughout the pandemic. As the vaccine rollout brings increased optimism to the office industry, JLL’s research experts predict Charlotte’s rising employment numbers and booming population growth will continue to position the market for a strong rebound.