The Challenge
When KQED had a problem — they had outgrown their San Francisco HQ — they turned to Polatnick Properties, a firm known for repurposing and reimagining San Francisco office buildings.
The Solution
During a year-long due diligence process, consultant David Polatnick presented KQED with more than 40 options to purchase or lease a new headquarters. One option was a renovation of its existing property. With Polatnick’s guidance, the station’s Board of Directors decided to renovate and remain in the building they own at 2601 Mariposa Street.
The Result
The renovation process began in summer 2019, and the new facility is scheduled to open in the winter of 2021. In the interim, Polatnick found a perfect sublet that matched KQED’s need for temporary space. The station has relocated to 50 Beale street at 48% below market rent (the current rental market can range between $80-$100 PSF). “We scoured the marketplace to find a fully furnished sublessor. Bechtel needed to sublease their space for a short period of time,” said Polatnick. All of KQED’s broadcast and digital services will continue uninterrupted during the transition.