Knight Frank names Charles Taylor as CEO of Poland

Global real estate consultancy Knight Frank has announced the appointment of Charles Taylor as CEO of Knight Frank Poland, signaling a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the region. Taylor brings over 25 years of experience in Central European real estate markets, with a proven record of leading transformative growth and executing significant transactions across all sectors.

In his new role, Taylor will oversee the firm’s expansion initiatives in Poland, focusing on building collaborative teams and delivering client-centric solutions. His leadership aims to position Knight Frank Poland as a dominant player in the real estate consultancy space.

Taylor previously served as Managing Director of Cushman & Wakefield Poland, where he was known for his dynamic leadership and ability to foster a results-driven culture. His expertise in capital markets and his deep understanding of the Central European market will play a pivotal role in Knight Frank’s growth strategy.

Anthony Duggan, Chair of Knight Frank Europe, expressed his confidence in the appointment:
“The European leadership board and I are delighted to welcome Charles Taylor as CEO of Knight Frank Poland. Charles is a respected figure in the industry, with a remarkable track record in leading large-scale consultancy transformations and delivering impactful capital markets transactions. We are excited to have him at the helm of our operations in Poland.”

Taylor shared his vision for the Polish market:
“Knight Frank Poland is at a critical and exciting juncture as the local market rebounds strongly. I am honored to join Krzysztof Cipiur and the leadership team to transform Knight Frank Poland into a real estate powerhouse. Together, we aim to grow the business exponentially, deliver exceptional results for our clients, and create a unique workplace for top industry talent.”

Krzysztof Cipiur, Managing Director and Head of Capital Markets for Knight Frank Poland, welcomed Taylor’s appointment:
“I am thrilled to have Charles join our team. His extensive experience, innovative approach, and industry knowledge will be instrumental in boosting our operations across all areas. This partnership allows me to focus on expanding our capital markets service line while collaborating with Charles to achieve our broader goals.”

Taylor’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Knight Frank Poland, as the firm seeks to capitalize on a resurgent real estate market and establish itself as a leading consultancy in the region.

A new chapter for a pre-1914 tenement house on Wrzesińska street in Warsaw

The historic tenement house at Wrzesińska 2 in Warsaw’s Stara Praga district has been given a new lease on life through an ambitious revitalization project by Zeitgeist Asset Management. Named ‘Wrzesińska 2 – HOME by Zeitgeist,’ the building seamlessly blends its 19th-century origins with modern functionality, offering 44 atmospheric apartments for long-term rental.

This transformation preserves the charm of the pre-1914 architecture while introducing a contemporary living experience. Interiors featuring 4-meter-high ceilings, original roof trusses, and restored wooden doors are just some of the standout features. “It’s a place for people seeking more than just comfort—those drawn to old architecture, unconventional spaces, and uniqueness,” says Peter Noack, Co-Founder and CEO of Zeitgeist Asset Management.

The roots of Wrzesińska 2 trace back to 1863, when the building began as a palace commissioned by August Zieliński. In 1911, it was expanded into a tenement house under Szmul Reichenberg. Located near the once-thriving “Horse Square,” the property has a rich history, including serving as the first headquarters of the Jewish school under Poland’s Central Committee of Jews after World War II.

Zeitgeist’s meticulous renovation highlights these historical elements, bringing the building’s story to the forefront. “We’ve taken great care to recreate historical details, both on the façade and within the apartments,” Noack emphasizes.

The apartments range in size from 26 to 65 square meters, offering diverse layouts, including unique two- and three-room units with dual exposures. On the top floor, ceilings soar up to 4.5 meters, incorporating mezzanines and historic roof truss details. Wooden doors and windows have been carefully restored, enhancing the building’s charm.

“We designed these flats for people who value independence and are inspired by unique spaces,” says Tomasz Dąbrowski, Managing Director of Zeitgeist Asset Management. “The location, so close to the city center yet immersed in nature, makes it truly special.”

The revitalized tenement also boasts a restored patio filled with greenery, a garden for a ground-floor unit, and a dark green steel gate reminiscent of its original design. Underground parking, bicycle storage, and storage units add to the modern conveniences.

Nestled in the heart of Stara Praga, Wrzesińska 2 benefits from proximity to Warsaw’s riverside harbor, a new footbridge across the Vistula River, and excellent transportation links. Two metro stations, multiple bus and tram lines, and easy access to parks and recreational areas make this a prime spot for residents seeking a mix of city life and tranquility.

Cultural attractions, family-friendly facilities, and a vibrant culinary scene, including global cuisine and iconic Praga bars, further enrich the neighborhood.

The revitalization of Wrzesińska 2 marks the second phase of Zeitgeist’s HOME by Zeitgeist project on Wrzesińska Street, complementing the earlier refurbishment of Wrzesińska 2a. Together, the two buildings offer 131 flats for long-term rental.

This addition enhances Zeitgeist’s Polish portfolio, which also includes 200 units in Gdańsk-Oliwa and 46 flats in a historic building at Św. Barbary Street in Warsaw. By breathing new life into historic properties, Zeitgeist continues to blend heritage preservation with modern living solutions, solidifying its reputation in the real estate market.

Union Investment sells Charleston Hyatt Hotel complex to Highline Hospitality Partners

Union Investment has successfully divested the Hyatt House/Hyatt Place hotel complex in Charleston, South Carolina, to Highline Hospitality Partners, a U.S.-based investment platform. The property, acquired by Union Investment in 2018 for its UniImmo: Global portfolio, has been a cornerstone asset in Charleston’s iconic historic district, a magnet for both leisure and business travelers.

The dual-branded hotel, which opened in 2015, features a total of 304 rooms split between two concepts. The Hyatt House, tailored for extended stays, offers 113 rooms equipped with kitchens and living areas. The Hyatt Place, meanwhile, provides 191 classic hotel rooms. Guests across the property enjoy shared amenities, including conference facilities, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a retail market, and a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the city.

Andreas Löcher, Head of Investment Management Operational at Union Investment, noted the strategic timing of the sale. “The transaction markets in the hotel property sector are slowly regaining momentum. We seized this early market opportunity to successfully sell the Hyatt House/Hyatt Place,” he stated. Löcher also expressed confidence in the new owner, adding, “In Highline Hospitality Partners, we have found an experienced buyer who will continue to write the success story of the property.”

The sale price remains undisclosed, as per an agreement between the parties. Union Investment was advised by CBRE, Metzler Real Estate, DLA Piper LLP, and BDO throughout the transaction.

This sale reflects a positive shift in the hospitality sector’s investment landscape, signaling renewed activity and confidence in the market.

Garbe and Bremer welcome Hyundai Mobis as new tenant in Bitterfeld-Wolfen Logistics Center

The logistics center in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, a joint project by Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH and Bremer Projektentwicklung GmbH, has secured a major new tenant. Hyundai Mobis’ European branch, Mobis Parts Europe N.V., has leased approximately 23,700 square meters to handle spare parts logistics for Hyundai and KIA brands, marking another milestone in the center’s expansion.

The lease agreement includes 20,600 square meters of hall space, 1,700 square meters for mezzanine storage, and 1,400 square meters of office and social facilities. The facility, designed as a multi-user space, will see Mobis Parts Europe occupy around two-thirds of its total area. “We’re thrilled to bring another automotive tenant into this premium property,” said Maik Zeranski, Executive Board Member at Garbe Industrial Real Estate, noting that the site’s prime location and close proximity—just 14 kilometers—to Mobis’ Sandersdorf-Brehna facility were key factors in the decision.

The Bitterfeld-Wolfen logistics center, situated in the “Mitteldeutschland Technology Park,” comprises three units totaling 113,000 square meters on a sprawling 222,000 square meter site. Developed with the Quakernack group and Bremer Projektentwicklung GmbH, the center represents a €130 million investment. Currently, 82,000 square meters have been leased to a prominent German car manufacturer, with approximately 10,000 square meters still available. “We’re in final negotiations and expect to announce full occupancy soon,” said Bernd Jungholt, Managing Director of Bremer Projektentwicklung GmbH.

Strategically positioned near the Bitterfeld-Wolfen exit off the A9 motorway, the center has convenient links to major cities including Leipzig, Nuremberg, and Berlin. Sustainability is a priority, with a large photovoltaic system capable of generating 4.5 MW of renewable energy installed on the roof and air-source heat pumps replacing fossil fuel heating. The facility is also targeting Platinum certification from the German Sustainable Building Council.

Real estate firm Jones Lang LaSalle’s Leipzig office facilitated the lease, with Norton Rose Fulbright LLP advising the landlord on legal matters, while Voigtmann Legal represented Mobis Parts Europe.

Piotr Kowalski joins MLP Group as Head of Project Management for Poland and Romania

MLP Group has bolstered its leadership by appointing Piotr Kowalski as Head of Project Management for Poland and Romania. Kowalski, who stepped into the role in early November, will oversee all phases of construction projects in both markets, from concept through to property handover.

With over two decades of experience in commercial real estate, Kowalski brings a wealth of expertise to MLP Group. A civil engineering graduate from Warsaw University of Technology, he has held various roles across leading firms, including positions as construction engineer, project manager, and most recently as Head of Construction at MDC2. In his previous roles, he supervised major investment projects and managed teams of project managers, collaborating closely with investors and company boards. His career also includes significant experience with Goodman Poland, Bovis Lend Lease Polska, and Mostostal Warszawa.

“MLP Group is undergoing dynamic growth, and Piotr Kowalski’s extensive background in real estate project management will be invaluable as we expand our warehousing footprint in Poland and further develop our operations in Romania,” said Agnieszka Góźdź, MLP Group’s Chief Development Officer. She noted the strategic importance of Poland’s market and MLP’s plans to tap into Romania’s growing appeal for logistics investments.

MLP Group, adhering to its build-and-hold model, retains completed logistics parks in its portfolio, managing properties to provide long-term support for tenants. Each MLP project emphasizes prime locations, customized build-to-suit options, and attentive tenant support throughout lease periods.

Beyond his professional role, Kowalski is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys mountain biking, ski touring, and backpacking mountain expeditions.

CTP to develop sixth logistics park in Warsaw, expanding with 76,300 sqm CTPark Warsaw Nowy Konik

CTP has announced plans to develop its sixth logistics hub in the Warsaw area, CTPark Warsaw Nowy Konik. This new park will span over 76,300 sqm and comprise four state-of-the-art warehouses. Construction is slated to begin in Q1 2025.

“The robust demand in the Warsaw warehouse market and its capacity to accommodate new developments motivate us to expand in this region,” said Piotr Flugel, Managing Director of CTP Poland. “CTPark Warsaw Nowy Konik’s prime location, on a 13-hectare plot with access to major European transport routes, is ideal for companies seeking to enhance their distribution networks in Central and Eastern Europe.”

Construction will commence early next year with the first warehouse, WNKO01, covering 10,600 sqm. The building will debut CTP’s CTBox format, combining showroom, office, and warehouse spaces under one roof—ideal for last-mile logistics, R&D, light manufacturing, and high-tech industries. Modular sections of around 500 sqm each will allow tenants flexibility. The first phase is expected to be operational by Q3 2025.

The project’s later stages will bring three additional warehouses with areas of 26,900 sqm, 21,000 sqm, and 17,800 sqm, offering various formats including CTFlex for mid-sized modules and larger turnkey spaces. “We’re prioritizing flexible space options and large power connections, providing up to 5MW in the initial phase to meet the needs of both production and technological infrastructures,” explained Patrycja Makowska, CTP Poland’s Business Developer.

Located just 22 km from central Warsaw, CTPark Warsaw Nowy Konik will support operational efficiency for tenants, particularly in omnichannel distribution models, helping to reduce both transport costs and emissions. The site was acquired by CTP earlier this year as part of a broader land purchase, totaling 500,000 sqm across Poland.

YIT expands into Brno market with plans to build over 750 flats

In a significant expansion beyond Prague, YIT is preparing to launch its first residential development project in Brno, the country’s second-largest city. The move comes as demand for quality housing continues to grow in the area, driven by Brno’s rapid economic and technological development. Through a multi-million crown acquisition, YIT has secured more than five hectares of land near Šedova Street in the Židenice district. In partnership with the financial group RSJ, YIT will develop a large residential complex, with over 750 housing units and several commercial spaces planned in multiple phases. With a building permit already approved, construction is set to begin in June 2025, with the entire project slated for completion by mid-2031.

“Our entry into the Brno market is a key step in our long-term strategy to expand beyond Prague,” said Marek Lokaj, CEO of YIT Stavo. “The Moravian capital offers immense potential for residential and commercial development, with a strong economy, high demand for housing, and relatively lower land and construction costs compared to Prague.” Lokaj added that YIT is establishing a dedicated team in Brno, comprising local market experts who understand the unique needs and opportunities of the region.

Brno’s Growth Fuels Demand for Housing

Brno has emerged as a leading technology and innovation hub in the Czech Republic, with a robust economy and growing job market attracting both domestic and international companies, particularly in the software and IT sectors. This economic boom has spurred a rising influx of young professionals moving to Brno for career opportunities, increasing the demand for housing. The city is home to nine universities and major research institutions, particularly in fields such as biology, medical sciences, materials research, and nanotechnology. With around 65,000 students—about one-sixth of Brno’s population—staying in the city after graduation, the need for modern, accessible housing has never been greater.

“Brno is a highly attractive destination for students and young professionals,” Lokaj explained. “However, one of their biggest challenges is finding housing. Unlike Prague, Brno’s real estate market remains less saturated, presenting significant opportunities for new construction. We believe our project will bring much-needed, high-quality housing to this vibrant locality, meeting the demands of the growing population.”

With this project, YIT is positioning itself as a key player in Brno’s residential development landscape, and its investment reflects a broader trend of regional expansion. The company aims to help address Brno’s housing shortage while providing a modern living environment tailored to the needs of young professionals and families alike.

Stokado begins construction on first self-storage development in Warsaw’s Bemowo district

Stokado, Poland’s second-largest self-storage operator, has broken ground on a new facility in Warsaw’s Bemowo district, marking its first development project in the capital. Backed by Redefine Properties, Griffin Capital Partners, and the original founders, Stokado’s newest venture will offer approximately 5,000 square meters of Net Leasable Area (NLA). This new site, situated at the busy intersection of Połczyńska and Lazurowa streets, will complement Stokado’s existing facility on Modlińska Street, further strengthening the company’s footprint in Warsaw’s growing self-storage market.

The Bemowo district, currently undergoing extensive residential growth and new metro development, is an ideal location for Stokado’s state-of-the-art facility. It will cater to both individual and business customers, providing easily accessible and secure storage options for the expanding local community.

The facility is designed with sustainability in mind, aiming for a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ certification. Eco-friendly features will include solar panels, a heat pump, and energy-efficient LED lighting. Stokado is also embracing digital solutions; customers will be able to complete reservations online via the website or app, and access their units using electronic locks, enabling a fully contactless, 24/7 experience.

“Warsaw is a key part of our expansion plan in Poland,” said Pieter Prinsloo, CEO of Redefine Europe BV. “The Bemowo facility, our second in the city, builds on our commitment to sustainable, convenient storage solutions that serve both private and business needs while contributing to the growth of Poland’s self-storage sector.”

This Warsaw facility is Stokado’s second development project in 2024, following one in Kraków that launched in July. Stokado is also broadening its reach into Poland’s Tri-City area, having recently secured a plot in Gdańsk-Brzeźno, with permitting now underway.

“As urbanization drives demand for flexible storage, we see great potential in Poland’s self-storage market,” commented Piotr Fijołek, Co-Managing Partner at Griffin Capital Partners. “Over the next five years, our aim is to solidify Stokado’s position in major Polish cities like Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, and the Tri-City, delivering high-quality and sustainable solutions tailored to evolving customer needs.”

Construction on the Bemowo facility is expected to wrap up by October 2025, with operations commencing shortly thereafter.

Cordia UK: Birmingham’s first shared living scheme gains planning approval

Cordia UK, part of Europe’s prominent property development giant Futureal Group, has secured planning approval for Birmingham’s inaugural shared living scheme, Bradford Works. This pioneering development marks the city’s first purpose-built shared living project, aiming to provide an innovative housing solution tailored to the city’s dynamic demographic of young professionals, post-graduate students, and freelancers.

Located at the corner of Barr Street and Harford Street in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, Bradford Works will feature 54 en-suite studio units with distinct living and sleeping spaces, providing residents the comfort of a junior suite. Alongside privacy-focused units, residents will enjoy a host of state-of-the-art communal amenities designed to foster community, including lounges, professional-grade kitchens, dining spaces, work areas, a fitness studio, and a landscaped rooftop terrace.

The design reflects Cordia’s commitment to sustainability and heritage preservation. Bradford Works will be a 100% A-rated energy-efficient development, and its refurbishment will retain the character of the existing Jewellery Quarter building while enhancing its historical essence.

“Receiving planning approval for Bradford Works is a major step forward,” said Andras Kárpáti, CEO of Cordia UK. “This development will fulfill the housing needs of Birmingham’s vibrant young population, where those under 34 now make up 75% of the city centre’s residents. Bradford Works reimagines the HMO model, elevating it to meet the standards of build-to-rent with a focus on affordability, modern living, and sustainability.”

Cordia’s research shows a growing demand for rental accommodation in Birmingham. In 2022, 22.6% of the city’s households were privately rented—a number projected to rise to 26% within five years. In the city centre, where over half of households are already rentals, this figure is expected to reach 63%. Bradford Works will address this surge by offering all units as affordable homes, aligning with the West Midlands Combined Authority’s income-based affordability standards.

“This project reflects our dedication to urban revitalization,” stated Tibor Földi, Chairman of Cordia Group. “As we expand in five countries, including the UK, our work in Birmingham underscores our commitment to urban regeneration and sustainable living.”

Cordia’s Co-Founder, Gábor Futó, highlighted Futureal Group’s extensive experience: “With over 240 projects in seven countries, Futureal Group has become an international leader in urban regeneration. We’re excited to bring our expertise to Birmingham and contribute to the UK’s thriving development landscape.”

Cordia UK’s investment in the West Midlands also includes The Bank and The Gothic, mixed-use and residential projects that are revitalizing Great Hampton Street. Bradford Works is anticipated to open its doors in 2026, aligning with Cordia’s vision of transforming underutilized areas into vibrant, community-oriented spaces.

Accolade expands asset management team to support growth in Poland

Accolade, a leading investor in modern industrial parks, is bolstering its asset management team in Poland to support its expanding portfolio of properties. With 29 industrial parks valued at over EUR 1.2 billion and spanning more than 1.6 million square meters, Accolade’s team is focused on enhancing property value, cultivating strong tenant relationships, and advancing sustainability initiatives across its holdings.

The team, led by Agnieszka Niezgodzka, Associate Director of Asset Management, is based directly in Poland, an advantage that Niezgodzka highlights as crucial for maintaining close, responsive partnerships with tenants. “Our presence on the ground allows us to foster almost daily connections with tenants, enabling us to swiftly address their needs and align our parks with evolving trends. We see industrial park management as an opportunity to lead on ESG initiatives—implementing forward-thinking solutions that enhance energy efficiency and sustainable development,” said Niezgodzka. She emphasized that Accolade’s ESG-driven approach provides tenants with a competitive edge within their industries.

Accolade’s Polish team, established nearly a decade ago, has grown alongside the company’s portfolio. The team oversees properties leased to over 100 tenants, generating an annual rental income of EUR 82.4 million. Dedicated asset managers are responsible for each industrial park, ensuring properties are optimized to meet the EU Green Taxonomy’s standards, which prioritize energy efficiency and CO2 reduction. This commitment to sustainable design and technology has been central to Accolade’s growth strategy in Poland, where it recently opened a regional office in Szczecin—the largest area for Accolade’s warehouse investments in the country.

Reflecting Accolade’s tenant-focused philosophy, the company is transforming its industrial parks into more than functional spaces, introducing amenities such as relaxation areas and its Accolade Industrial Art program, which incorporates art into industrial environments to enhance the workplace experience.

Niezgodzka is supported by a team of seasoned professionals, including Adrian Karpiński and Jacek Kiełducki in the Szczecin office, and a Warsaw-based team comprising Magda Mrozowska, Łukasz Grzegorczuk, Robert Napieralski, Paulina Chlewicka, and Wiktoria Krynicka, who lead analytical operations. Recent team additions, including Anna Gradowska, reflect Accolade’s commitment to building a robust, skilled asset management team to advance its mission of sustainable growth in Poland’s dynamic industrial property sector.

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