More than ever, companies have come to realize the competitive advantage of high-quality, well-located and well-amenitized buildings to better attract, retain and serve their talent. For example, at KBS’ Class A building in Nashville; UBS Tower is home to one of the city’s only “kegerators” (a special refrigerator designed to store kegs that dispense ice-cold beer and wine on tap). It’s a refreshing amenity KBS provides tenants for after-work events like “Thirsty Thursdays.” It’s just one of the many incentives that helps foster a sense of community among tenants and supports an engaging workplace — as does the free coffee kiosk and the new fitness center. In this issue of Premier magazine, you’ll take a tour of this extraordinary property, as well as learn the essential role it plays in Music City’s bustling business community.

You’ll also learn about a hidden gem in the Bay Area, Emeryville, California, where KBS’ waterfront, three-building, Class A office park The Towers Emeryville is located. Emeryville is attracting tenants due to its location, safety, affordability, and amenities. 

Then, meet Dr. Eva Garland, founder of Eva Garland Consulting (EGC), a firm that helps scientific startups secure hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for innovative research. EGC was one of the first tenants to move into KBS’ speculative-built Bank of America Tower in Raleigh, North Carolina, nearly nine years ago. In our Tenant Profile, Dr. Garland discusses her firm’s remarkable road to success and how KBS’ has accommodated her company as it has grown.

In our Tech Focus article, you’ll see how the rise of electric vehicles is increasing demand for EV charging stations across the country. KBS has been an early adopter of incorporating EV charging stations at our properties. But as that technology changes, we’re doing our part to improve the tenant EV charging experience and adding more throughout our portfolio.

Finally, the Premier magazine team asked me to share my thoughts regarding the current commercial real estate industry and how the Fed’s policy pivot is fueling new momentum in the office market.

We’re very pleased with how this year’s Premier magazine turned out, and I trust you’ll enjoy the
range of topics covered within its pages. Hearing the positive response regarding previous issues has been gratifying, but we’re equally thankful for everyone who’ve made this annual publication possible, including contributors, staff, and extraordinary sponsorship partners.

God bless America.