FREL: Designing ever-lasting avant-garde Buildings for Mexico's Evolving Real Estate Market

Mexico is a key player in the Latin American real estate market. Its capital, Mexico City, boasts over 8.2 million square meters, the second-largest office market in the region according to SiiLA Market Analytics. This metropolis is home to major corporate buildings, making it an extremely competitive business center within the region. Two great examples are Corporativo Polanco and The Summit Santa Fe. These mixed-use properties offer cutting-edge designs and spaces that prioritize a wellness experience.

Corporativo Polanco and The Summit Santa Fe, built over two decades apart, have stood the test of time and even paved the way for new markets and commercial opportunities. This raises a question: What makes a real estate development successful, and how can that success be sustained?

According to FREL, developer of these iconic buildings, the condition and remaining life of a property are largely related to the quality of its design, construction, and management. Alan Rodriguez Aguilera, Commercial Director of the company, mentioned to SiiLA that FREL’s success is due to innovation, which keeps its properties ahead of the curve, and environmental stewardship, “which considers the evolving needs of families and the surroundings to ensure properties remain state-of-the-art."

Corporativo Polanco was completed in 1997 in a strategic business district. At that time, it already had the sustainable features that recently earned it a LEED Gold certification. This forward-looking vision has been critical for real estate developments to remain relevant, attract clients, and retain investment in big cities like Mexico City.

In addition to technical considerations, FREL recognizes the importance of creating experiences that enhance the value of properties, particularly in the post-pandemic era. This requires anticipating the evolving needs of people and designing spaces that feature premium amenities, finishes, and materials that stand the test of time. The Summit Santa Fe, for example, is a sustainable complex with terraces and open areas that surround an office tower. This property offers a luxurious experience that combines green areas and diversified commercial activities, including a retail zone and a fitness hub.