Kato International Unveils Tower 49 Redevelopment Plan
Kato International LLC has announced an ambitious, owner-led redevelopment initiative for Tower 49, marking a major step in reimagining the workplace experience within one of Midtown Manhattan’s prominent office properties. The project will introduce new amenity spaces, expand flexible office offerings, and implement a comprehensive tenant experience program designed to serve a diverse community of occupants, from traditional leaseholders to flexible workspace users. The redevelopment is scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of 2026.
At the heart of the initiative is an expanded partnership with Industrious, a global leader in flexible workplace solutions. Under this collaboration, Industrious will oversee full-building experience operations, bringing its expertise in hospitality-driven office environments to every aspect of the tenant journey. This move reflects a broader trend in the commercial real estate sector, where landlords are increasingly prioritizing tenant experience as a key differentiator.
The redevelopment project is being executed by a highly regarded team of industry experts. Leading the design and architectural vision are Bonetti Kozerski Architecture and MdeAS Architects, while Mucca will handle branding and identity. Hospitality strategy is being guided by Friend of Chef, ensuring that the building’s new amenities deliver a premium, service-oriented experience that rivals high-end hotels.
According to Hisamitsu Hara, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Kato International, the redevelopment reflects a long-term commitment to both the building and its tenants. He emphasized that the initiative is not merely a renovation but a strategic reinvestment aimed at creating one of the most exceptional workplace environments globally. By assembling a top-tier team and focusing on quality and innovation, the company seeks to elevate Tower 49’s status within the competitive Midtown market.
A key component of the plan involves significantly expanding Industrious’s presence within the building. The company will increase its managed footprint to approximately 291,600 square feet, spanning 18 floors. This expansion will establish Tower 49 as Industrious’s flagship location in Midtown and create the largest single flexible office footprint in the world. The decision is driven by strong tenant demand and the success of existing flexible workspace offerings within the building.
Gentry Long, President of Industrious, described the project as the most ambitious undertaking in the company’s history. He highlighted the opportunity to redefine what a modern workplace can offer, including advanced meeting facilities, innovative amenities, and elevated service standards. Long noted that such a large-scale transformation is only possible through close alignment between the property owner and the operator, a partnership that allows for meaningful reinvestment and long-term vision.
Central to the redevelopment are two newly designed amenity floors that aim to enhance the daily experience of tenants. The third floor will feature a full-service meetings and conference center, equipped with a large, flexible assembly space capable of accommodating up to 120 people. This area will also include adaptable meeting rooms and a café offering complimentary coffee and snacks throughout the workday, creating a convenient and collaborative environment for business interactions.
Meanwhile, the 24th floor will be transformed into a sky lobby and social lounge, offering a unique blend of work, relaxation, and community engagement. This space will include curated food and beverage options, wellness-focused amenities, and areas designed for both productivity and leisure. Features such as executive showers, reset zones, an oversized parenting suite, and flexible event spaces are intended to support a wide range of tenant needs, from professional meetings to personal well-being.
The design and programming of these spaces are being carefully crafted to deliver a seamless and elevated experience. Culinary offerings will include all-day coffee service as well as restaurant-style dining options in the evening, catering to client meetings, networking events, and social gatherings. This approach reflects a growing emphasis on hospitality within office environments, where the goal is to create spaces that people genuinely enjoy spending time in.
Robert Bakst, Asset Manager and Exclusive Agent for Kato International, noted that the redevelopment builds on existing momentum at Tower 49. By investing at scale and collaborating with leading partners, the company aims to strengthen the building’s competitive position while delivering long-term value for both tenants and ownership.
Tower 49 itself is a 45-story, Class A office building offering more than 600,000 square feet of office and retail space. Located at 12 East 49th Street between Madison and Fifth Avenues in New York City, the property occupies a prime position in Midtown Manhattan. It has been owned by Kato International since 1986 and was originally designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, a globally recognized architectural firm.
Over the years, the building has undergone continuous upgrades, including a renovation of its lobby and elevator systems led by Moed de Armas and Shannon. Its central location places it within walking distance of major landmarks such as Grand Central Station, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and the iconic Fifth Avenue, making it highly attractive to businesses seeking connectivity and prestige.
With this comprehensive redevelopment, Kato International is positioning Tower 49 as a next-generation office destination that blends flexibility, design excellence, and hospitality. As workplace expectations continue to evolve, the project underscores the importance of creating environments that not only support productivity but also enhance the overall experience of those who use them.
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