Energy Corridor’s Republic Square Adds Samsung, Other Tenants After 2 Years of Renovations

 

By OLIVIA PULSINELLI

HOUSTON – A 35-acre office campus in Houston’s Energy Corridor that was once owned by Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE: XOM) has completed two years of renovations and is adding tenants.

Dart Interests, formerly Third Palm Capital, announced Sept. 9 that it has “relaunched” the Republic Square campus. In 2015, the property’s owners rolled out a $1 billion plan for Republic Square, but because energy prices took a hit around the same time, the project was scaled back significantly.

Now, the campus, at 13501 Katy Freeway, has been modernized and optimized, according to Dart’s Sept. 9 press release. All building mechanical systems such as HVAC, electrical and plumbing system have been replaced, restrooms were completely renovated, the lake and trail systems have been reconstructed, and garages completely refurbished, introducing sensor lighting. The main lobby has been fully renovated with signature lighting elements. Renovations also include upgrades to 20,000 square feet of executive space, an overhaul of perimeter and courtyard landscaping, and the addition of a conference room, training facility and a premium fitness center incorporating spa-like locker rooms with showers.

Additionally, Houston-based creative shop Formation is working to add a new wayfinding program to the campus, and build-out of new second and third floor spec suites and collaborative areas are underway.

Huitt-Zollars handled planning and design, and Basic Builders is the general contractor. NAI Partners provides onsite management and leasing for Republic Square.

Among the recent leases, Samsung leased a 3,974-square-foot space and was represented by Nichole Thalji with Luxe Executive Group. As previously announced, Houston-based Gate Energy leased 24,302 square feet, represented by Alex Taghi of NAI Partners, and digital consulting services firm Sparkhound leased 4,533 square feet, represented by Noah Kruger with Savills. Sparkhound expects to move into the campus this month, and Gate expects to begin moving in November, making Republic Square the new Houston headquarters for the Gate family of companies.

“With Covid putting new demands on leasing, tenant interest in Republic Square has significantly increased due to its low-density design, both short and long-term leasing options, access to major thoroughfares and popular commercial and residential areas, plus the orientation of offices to the natural beauty of the setting,” the press release states.

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