30 Stories for 30 Years: From Transactions to Relationships – The Evolution of Tenant Expectations
Over the past 30 years, the commercial real estate landscape has evolved dramatically. At Gaedeke Group, we’ve seen tenant expectations shift from a focus on square footage and location to a desire for an environment that supports well-being, productivity, and connection. One of the most transformative changes we’ve embraced in that time is the rising importance of amenities.
For decades, the term “anchor tenant” referred to a high-profile company with a large lease. Their presence gave a building stature and stability. But in today’s market, the new anchor is not necessarily a Fortune 500 logo. It is the experience that surrounds the tenants. Amenities have become central to leasing strategy, tenant satisfaction, and long-term asset performance.
Modern office users want more than just a place to work. They want access to wellness offerings like fitness centers and healthy dining, flexible common areas for informal meetings or social gatherings, and smart technology that simplifies their daily routines. These are no longer perks. They are expectations. And buildings that deliver on them are winning in competitive markets.
At Gaedeke, we’ve made intentional investments to meet this shift. At Brickell Arch in Miami, our partnership with AKA Hotels is a strong example of how hospitality-driven thinking can elevate the workplace experience. The result is a curated environment where tenants enjoy concierge-style service and refined amenities that go beyond the typical office setup. It sets the property apart in a crowded market.
Our commitment to thoughtful design, technology integration, and service-oriented experiences reflects a broader philosophy: that buildings should support the way people live and work now, not just how they did decades ago. As we look ahead, we see amenities not as a checklist item, but as a strategic advantage that reflects our core values: quality, innovation, and care for the people who occupy our spaces.
After 30 years, we’re not just redefining what it means to lead in commercial real estate. We’re redefining what it means to anchor a building, one tenant experience at a time.
