West Palm Beach’s skyline is primed for continued transformation as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gives the green light to construct 515 Fern, an impressive 25-story tower set to redefine the city’s commercial landscape. This FAA approval marks a significant milestone for New York-based developer Related Companies, known for their iconic Hudson Yards development, who is behind this ambitious project. The structure, set to soar to 386 feet (or 404 feet above mean sea level), is poised to become West Palm Beach’s largest office tower.
515 Fern. Credit: The Related Companies.
Below are images of the approved permits for 515 Fern. The FAA has confirmed that at the approved height, the structure would have no substantial adverse effect on the safe and efficient utilization of the navigable airspace by aircraft or the operation of air navigation facilities.
Approved FAA permit for 515 Fern.
Approved FAA permit for 515 Fern.
Approved FAA permit for 515 Fern.
Approved FAA permit for 515 Fern.
Taking its name from its prominent location at 515 Fern Street in the heart of the Downtown corridor, this upcoming architectural marvel is set to encompass a generous 471,000 square feet of versatile space. This includes a substantial 456,000 square feet dedicated to premium office facilities and an additional 15,000 square feet designated for retail spaces to cater to the area’s burgeoning demand. With its towering stature of 386 feet and extensive commercial offerings, 515 Fern is primed to secure its position as the city’s largest office edifice and the second-tallest structure overall. Anticipated to commence construction in late 2023, the project is slated for completion in 2025.
This venture comes hot on the heels of Related’s impressive accomplishments in the region, particularly the triumphant completion of 360 Rosemary, a 20-story Class A office development spanning 300,000 square feet. Clad in glass, black metal, and striking red terracotta, this project was fully leased upon completion, boasting notable occupants such as Levatas LLC, Comvest Partners, Poiinternational, and Goldman Sachs. When 515 Fern materializes, Related’s office footprint in West Palm Beach will surpass a staggering 2 million square feet.
The design for 515 Fern shares uncanny resemblances with the renowned 360 Rosemary, designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects and Leo A Daly. The forthcoming skyscraper is anticipated to feature a mix of terracotta, metal, and glass in its facade, reminiscent of the industrial-style grid seen on 360 Rosemary. Additionally, Related envisions a new road alongside the train tracks, fostering better connectivity between Fern Street and Evernia Street enhancing accessibility to the train station.
As the FAA gives its nod of approval, West Palm Beach’s architectural landscape is primed for a dramatic change with the impending construction of 515 Fern. This towering addition is set to reshape the city’s skyline and solidify Related Companies’ position as a driving force in West Palm Beach’s urban development. With its innovative design and strategic location, 515 Fern will redefine West Palm Beach’s commercial future.
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Maybe this is only the beginning, as Related is proposing more towers on the Muvico/AMC theater site, but I wish that more articulating building forms, spires, and curves would be incorporated into architectural designs. Still, far better than most of Arquitectonica’s designs commissioned by the other “Related,” I suppose.
This building would look so much better with a 50 or 75 foot spire or some other ornamental crown.
We need to get away from mega blocks all similar heights. We need slimmer tops that are taller so everyone has a view and would be a more graceful skyline. Some ornamental domes or spires would give it landmark status.