As counsel to Kaufman Astoria Studios in 2011 I handled two new leases in the facility, both true New York stories. The Theatre Development Fund moved its 75,000 piece costume collection to the Studios after being priced out in Manhattan. The Wall Street Journal article is cute but the real story is revealed on the TDF website where their mission to rent costumes to non-profit theatre groups is discussed. Think Boston or Washington DC or Stamford, CT have this resource? Another story is the new Astor Room Restaurant in the old commissary at the Studios where Valentino and Mary Pickford used to eat. Chris Vlacich, the second generation owner of the well known restaurant Piccolo Venitzia in Astoria, branched out into the Studio’s landmarked location. Both leases required some creativity since the spaces were both being repurposed from other uses. Good luck to both in their new space!
PartnerTom represents owners, operators and developers in the acquisition, financing, development, ground leasing, and sale of significant properties. His experience includes office towers, commercial condominiums, industrial ...