Smith Anderson Renews Lease at Downtown Raleigh Iconic High-Rise, Reinvesting in Downtown’s Future

Smith Anderson, the largest law firm headquartered in the Triangle, has reaffirmed its commitment to downtown Raleigh by signing a lease extension exceeding 10 years with Highwoods Properties at the iconic 29-story high-rise, 150 Fayetteville, formerly known as the Wells Fargo Capitol Center. Since its founding in 1912, Smith Anderson has been a proud part of downtown Raleigh’s story for over a century, with Fayetteville Street as its foundation.

The lease extension is not just about office space–it’s a boost for Raleigh’s post-pandemic revitalization and underscores the firm’s dedication to supporting the community and downtown’s economic growth by remaining on Fayetteville Street. The transformation of the resilient downtown is well underway, offering the ideal combination of connectivity and community, and Smith Anderson is a proud partner in this evolution.

"We want to help downtown continue to revitalize post-pandemic, and as one of the largest private employers in the downtown area, we are excited that we can play a significant role in doing that,” said Byron Kirkland, Managing Partner of Smith Anderson. "North Carolina is one of the best states to do business in the country, Raleigh is one of the best places to do business in North Carolina, and Raleigh deserves a resilient and lively downtown. We’re thrilled to be part of that vision.”

The firm will also undergo extensive renovations, expanding by two additional floors to support its growing team of over 260 people. The renovations will add 20,339 s/f to its current 91,988 s/f and are being designed to significantly modernize the space. Construction is set to begin in April 2025 and is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

The upgraded space will include amenities such as wellness areas on each floor, huddle rooms, hoteling/flex offices, and an enhanced firm café, all contributing to a heightened culture of firm collaboration, flexibility, and improved health and wellness. For clients, the upgrades will enhance collaboration and innovation by providing state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces and advanced technology in a modernized environment designed to boost productivity, strengthen partnerships, and deliver an exceptional experience.

A standout feature of the project will be a striking two-story window in the firm’s lobby, located on the building's top two floors. This design element will fill the space with natural light and showcase breathtaking views of Raleigh’s skyline.

"For over 100 years, Smith Anderson has been part and parcel to downtown Raleigh’s growth and success,” said Ted Klinck, President and CEO of Highwoods Properties. "We were deliberate in making the move ourselves downtown in 2022 to 150 Fayetteville Street to work alongside Byron and the talented team at Smith Anderson, and we couldn’t be more excited to help them grow for many more years into the future. We believe Fayetteville Street is North Carolina’s Main Street, and we very much appreciate the opportunity to serve as Smith Anderson’s workplace partner. In partnership with the city and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, we’re committed to making downtown the most commute-worthy Best Business District we can.”

"As one of Downtown Raleigh’s oldest businesses, Smith Anderson has been a foundational partner and stakeholder in Downtown Raleigh for over a century now,” said Bill King, President and CEO of Downtown Raleigh Alliance. "Keeping Smith Anderson is a massive win for downtown’s continued upward trajectory, as we add a flurry of new storefront businesses and build momentum for North Carolina’s Main Street. Not only are we keeping a major employer in the heart of downtown, but we are keeping a company that consistently has participated and led in efforts to elevate Downtown Raleigh. This is a critical step in bringing downtown back and we are excited to work with Smith Anderson’s leadership and employees to keep downtown moving forward.”

"Smith Anderson’s reinvestment in downtown Raleigh shows the confidence one of our city’s long-standing business leaders has in keeping our urban core thriving," Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell said. "Downtown’s success depends on everyone working together – the city, businesses, institutions and the community. I’m thrilled to see a firm that’s been such a big part of downtown Raleigh’s history continue to invest in and help shape our city’s future for years to come."