The Harlem Office Market: Top Office Properties
Harlem boasts a vibrant commercial office market, encompassing just over 3 million square feet of space. While primarily concentrated around 125th Street, stretching from Lexington Avenue to Frederick Douglass Boulevard, those seeking commercial space further south or west will also find compelling options.
The tenant base in Harlem is notably diverse, largely comprised of four key sectors: Nonprofits, Healthcare, Government, and Education. This mix contributes to the submarket’s stability and unique character.
Below is a list of prominent office properties in Harlem, showcasing the area’s rich history and modern amenities:
2090 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd – The Theresa Tower (Between 124th & 125th Streets)
Originally a hotel built in 1913, The Theresa became a central hub of Harlem’s Black community, earning it the moniker “the Waldorf of Harlem.” Famously, Fidel Castro stayed at the hotel in 1960. In 1970, it was converted into an office building.
The building has undergone a comprehensive renovation, featuring a new lobby, upgraded elevator cabs and mechanical systems, and a new 24/7 security system. Full floors span approximately 13,700 square feet and can be divided to accommodate smaller tenants. Current tenants include the Legal Aid Society, CASES, Legal Services of NY, and Community Access, among others.
2108-2118 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. – The Alhambra Building (Between 125th & 126th Streets)
Constructed in 1905 as a vaudeville theatre, The Alhambra has seen several transformations, including a period as a bowling alley. Today, it stands as a distinguished office building, housing tenants such as the Federal Government and the French American Charter School, which benefits from its own dedicated entrance. The building’s top floor continues to serve as a popular event venue, the Alhambra Ballroom. Office floors are approximately 13,500 square feet and can be subdivided to meet various size requirements.
55 West 125th Street – Between Lenox Avenue & Fifth Avenue
In September 1998, real estate company Cogswell acquired this property and initiated a $10 million capital improvement program. This extensive overhaul included elevator modernization, mechanical upgrades, a complete overhaul of life/safety systems, and a full renovation of the lobby. 55 West 125th Street is recognized as one of Harlem’s higher-quality properties, offering 24-hour security and daily office cleaning included in the rent. Notable tenants include the Offices of Former President William Jefferson Clinton, CUNY, and several other federal and local governmental agencies.
215 West 125th Street – Between Adam Clayton Powell Blvd and Frederick Douglass Blvd
Also owned by Cogswell, this 164,000-square-foot commercial office building is another premier Harlem asset. Its prime location is just steps from the world-famous Apollo Theater and the new Victoria Theater and Renaissance Hotel. Tenants include Emblem Health, Lenox Hill Radiology, and various government agencies.
121 West 125th Street – Between Fifth Avenue & Lenox Avenue
Harlem’s newest office property, built in 2024, this building is the new home of the National Urban League and houses the offices of the recently re-opened Harlem Studio Museum. The office floors feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering unobstructed views of Manhattan and impressive 16-foot ceilings. Retail tenants at this location include Trader Joe’s and Target.
1825 Park Avenue – 125th Street – The Lee Building
Known as The Lee Building, 1825 Park Avenue is a 12-story, 135,000-square-foot office building strategically located along Park Avenue, directly across from the Metro-North Station. Built in 1901, the property boasts unique architectural features, including an ornate 20th-century facade, vaulted 10’ – 12’ ceilings, unobstructed southern views of the Manhattan skyline, and 11,500-square-foot floor plates. Tenants include the MTA Police, Carver Bank, and several nonprofit organizations.
145 East 125th Street – Lexington Avenue
This boutique office building offers a smaller floor plate of 7,500 square feet and is conveniently located one block from the Metro-North and directly atop the Lexington Avenue subway line. The major tenant is Housing Works, occupying floors 2-4. The building underwent a complete renovation in 2024 including a new lobby, the addition of the second elevator and features 24/7 security. The floors benefit from wrap-around windows, providing excellent natural light and views.
I would be delighted to discuss any requirement you may have in Harlem and provide a comprehensive survey of appropriate space options.
Feel free to contact me:
Paul Walker 212-984-7117 Paul.Walker@cbre.com Paul Walker | LinkedIn
About the Author
Paul Walker
As a commercial real estate broker specializing in all facets of office leasing for over 30 years, I’m also a proud native New Yorker with a deep love for this city. My commitment to my community is reflected in my founding of two real estate charity events and consistent involvement in professional organizations. Outside of work, I enjoy live music, movies, basketball, tennis, podcasts, and a continuous pursuit of knowledge, especially regarding history and the fascinating story of New York.