Inside the Real Estate Market: SiiLA ACADEMY Students Visit CEA

Nicastro (GN): Bruno, the CEA stands out as a remarkably imposing structure. Could you share some insights into the history of CEA?

Turaça (BT): The CEA was conceived by the pension fund of Cosipa back in the '90s. A completely steel-framed structure was a rarity in Brazil then, considering the cost and expertise limitations. The Atrium, with a soaring 40-meter ceiling, and a glass dome on the roof allowing natural light, make it truly distinctive—a departure from the ordinary.

GN: Due to its metallic structure, out of curiosity, how many tons of steel were used here?

BT: Almost 5,000 tons of steel were used here. To put it in perspective, a medium-sized shopping mall with a metal roof typically uses between 800 and 1,000 tons. In essence, the steel in this building equals the roofing of five medium-sized shopping centers.

GN: When did Barzel acquire and take over the management of the property?

BT: We acquired it in 2017. It was an asset in the background, owned by another property company. We transformed it into a crown jewel through a process of retrofitting and modernization, resulting in what we see today.

GN: What challenges did you encounter in managing this unique asset compared to your usual portfolio?

BT: Initially, it had highly fragmented occupancy with over 30 tenants in large spaces exceeding 3,000 square meters. Our strategy focused on three pillars that were far from conventional. First, proximity to Congonhas Airport, offering accessibility for businesses with frequent traveler executives. Second, the automotive industry in ABC, just 10 minutes away. Third, the Port of Santos. Today, we have a handful of major multinational tenants related to these pillars, transforming it from a diversified building with potentially higher credit risks into a property with few multinational tenants and significantly lower credit risk.

GN: The success of Barzel lies in distinguishing factors, as emphasized in SiiLA ACADEMY. You've executed this masterfully.

BT: Absolutely. While everyone appreciates the Faria Lima axis, when opportunities like these arise, and we identify solid fundamentals that can bring long-term returns, we delve into these investments. This property is counterflow, outside the expanded downtown rotation. There are numerous advantages, such as the ability to draw talent from ABC, the eastern and southern zones, all avoiding the downtown rotation. These are the advantages companies are seeking to bring people back to the office.

GN: Besides the abundance of public transportation...

BT: The subway practically reaches the basement; the station is 10 meters from the building's facade. We have interfaces with the subway and the city government due to this proximity. It's something rarely seen in São Paulo but more common internationally—the integration of public transportation with corporate buildings.

GN: Wonderful, thank you, Bruno. Thanks again, Barzel, for your ongoing support. I hope our collaboration continues for a long time. Congratulations on another successful investment.

BT: Thank you, and you're always welcome.

Act fast—limited units are available for corporate leasing at CEA. For more details, visit SPOT and explore other commercial opportunities by Barzel in corporate buildings throughout São Paulo by accessing the complete portfolio here.

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