Founded in 1986 in Chicago, Sterling Bay has evolved from a local developer into a nationally recognized real estate investment and development firm with a portfolio exceeding $20 billion in assets. The company is privately held and operates as a vertically integrated platform, managing all aspects of real estate development including acquisitions, design, construction, leasing, and asset management. Sterling Bay is known for its focus on urban campus developments and mixed-use environments that blend office, residential, life sciences, and retail components.
Sterling Bay’s investment strategy centers on value-add and opportunistic real estate across major U.S. markets. The firm targets underutilized or undervalued assets in emerging neighborhoods, transforming them into high-demand destinations. Its asset class focus includes creative office, luxury multifamily, life sciences, industrial, and retail. Notable developments include the Lincoln Yards project in Chicago—a 53-acre mixed-use redevelopment—and 545wyn in Miami, a 298,000 SF creative office and retail building.
The company’s top market exposures include Chicago, Miami, and San Diego. Chicago remains its core market, with significant holdings in Fulton Market and the West Loop. Miami has seen recent expansion through office and retail projects, while San Diego represents its growing life sciences footprint.
Sterling Bay’s tenant roster includes high-profile companies such as Google, McDonald’s, Dyson, and Hillshire Brands, which contribute meaningfully to net effective rent. The firm maintains a relatively diversified tenant base but has notable exposure to tech and consumer brands.
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