JLL announced it has been engaged by Gateway Jax to lead leasing efforts for 655 Pearl, a six-story trophy office building set to anchor Pearl Square, the walkable, mixed-use neighborhood
As the only office building planned in the first collection of buildings in Pearl Square, 655 Pearl represents a rare opportunity for companies to establish a presence within a brand-new district that blends residential living,
With an anticipated groundbreaking in 2027 and delivery by 2028, the building will offer approximately 100,000 square feet of premier workspace and 25,000 square feet of ground floor retail. JLL Executive Managing Director Michael Loftin, Jesse Shimp, and Senior Associate Mack Keasler will lead leasing efforts.
655 Pearl sits within the emerging Pearl Square neighborhood, spanning approximately nine city blocks in Downtown Jacksonville. Office tenants will be steps from 1,250 new apartments, a Publix grocery store, the renovated 110-key Ambassador Hotel, more than a dozen chef-driven restaurants and shops, as well as signature public spaces such as plazas, parks, and curbless streets. In total, the neighborhood will span more than two million square feet of residential, retail, hospitality, and green space, creating a dynamic environment designed to attract talent and support long-term growth in Downtown Jacksonville.
“With five buildings currently under construction, Pearl Square is moving at pace to redefine the city’s geographic heart,” said Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax in a statement. “655 Pearl represents the first opportunity for businesses to plant a flag within this $750 million ecosystem. We are delivering a world-class workspace that is physically integrated into a hospitality-led district, giving our tenants immediate, walkable access to new residences, public parks, over two dozen curated shops and retailers, daily amenities and signature restaurants.”
Designed by Morris Adjmi Architects in collaboration with BDG Architects, with landscape design by Hoerr Schaudt, 655 Pearl will offer approximately 100,000 square feet of boutique office space across six stories. The building will feature flexible floorplates ranging from 17,000 to 21,000 square feet, abundant natural light, and outdoor terraces. A dedicated 5,000-square-foot tenant amenity suite, including a 1,250-square-foot terrace, provides a sophisticated “third space” for collaboration, while the ground floor features a hospitality-inspired lobby and 25,000 square feet of flagship restaurant space.
“Jacksonville’s premium office market is tightening as demand continues to concentrate in well-located, high-quality buildings,” said JLL’s Loftin. “With virtually no new office product delivered downtown in recent decades, developments like 655 Pearl respond directly to that gap, introducing thoughtfully designed, contemporary workspace that supports evolving tenant needs and the long-term vitality of the Urban Core. Companies are increasingly understanding that a great, amenity-rich office building inside a vibrant neighborhood is the most effective tool to attract and retain talent.”
For more information, visit 655pearl.com.
