Commercial Real Estate Company Unlocks Event Spaces

Carr Properties is making six private event spaces in its buildings available for offsite events. The product line named Carr+ Events is a new strategic initiative, according to Oliver Carr, CEO of Carr Properties. “We see this as a strategic initiative for the future of commercial real estate. [Our] trophy and Class A assets offer beautiful spaces that can be competitive against traditional event venues. It’s a unique strategy that fills a void in the marketplace,” said Carr.

The selection of real estate includes penthouses, rooftops, courtyards, demonstration and catering kitchens, and conference rooms, with capacities ranging from 10 to 700. 

“The launch of Carr+ Events is an example of our ability to innovate and meet the evolving needs of our existing customers and the broader community which is seeking better alternatives for high-quality event space,” said Carr.

These spaces are a good fit for board meetings, company offsites, cocktail receptions, conferences, and dinners. “While there is a clear trend towards hybrid work that is here to stay, we recognize that companies and individuals continue to value in-person gatherings as an opportunity to connect, network, and celebrate together,” said Carr. “Thoughtful design is one of our brand pillars. We have worked with hospitality-led design firms to deliver beautiful and functional amenity spaces over the years that naturally lend themselves to large-scale event spaces.”

Available Real Estate

Several spaces within five buildings in the Carr portfolio are available for hire. These include The Wilson in Bethesda, Md., Signal House, 1700 New York, and Midtown Center, both in Washington, D.C., and 2311 Wilson in Arlington, Va. In addition, Carr’s newest development, One Congress in Boston, will also have spaces available. 

“It’s always great to add more product and options for small meetings and events throughout the city, said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “It allows for meeting attendees to experience D.C.’s vibrant neighborhoods while benefitting the hotels, retailers, and restaurants in our local communities.”

“Catering to both existing tenants and external customers, the platform leverages our best-in-class amenities and spaces. In carefully thinking through our business model, we recognized this as a natural extension of our current offerings. It’s exciting and fun to be able to open up what previously would have been inaccessible to the general public,” says Carr. 

The rental fee includes the room fee and associated operational services. These include janitorial services, security, Carr engineering support, HVAC, and a parking attendant. For an additional fee, Carr can provide a day-of event coordinator. The real estate company is currently handling all bookings in-house, but admits this may change as things progress.