Following refurbishment with architecture firm Buckley Gray Yeoman: KanAm Grund Group strengthens long-term value and income stability of the landmark property 4–8 St Andrew Square in Edinburgh
The KanAm Grund Group has successfully completed the comprehensive refurbishment of the lobby, common areas and end-of-trip facilities at the prestigious office property 4–8 St Andrew Square - in the heart of Edinburgh. Last year, the investment and asset manager had already secured the property’s long-term value stability with high-profile tenants taking occupation including Heineken UK Ltd, MacDonald & Muir Ltd., part of the LVMH Group, and Dickson Minto.
Complementing a premium refurbishment with strong tenant retention, the KanAm Grund Group once again demonstrates its commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and long-term value creation. The company acquired 4–8 St Andrew Square in May 2019 on behalf of an investment fund held by a German pension scheme and has been responsible for the investment and asset management ever since.
High-quality reception sets new standards in the heart of Edinburgh
The redesigned lobby blends modern architectural design with sophisticated materials and enhanced functionality. The bright, double-height entrance has been even further improved presenting an even more inviting environment for occupiers and visitors alike, emphasising the property’s prime location and exceptional quality within one of the UK’s most dynamic city centers.
Long-term leases reinforce asset value
In addition to the architectural enhancement programme, the KanAm Grund Group successfully strengthened the property’s value through targeted lease restructuring and new lettings.
Over the past year, ‘blue-chip’ corporates Heineken UK Ltd, MacDonald & Muir Ltd, and the leading law firm Dickson Minto have signed long-term leases. Together, they occupy approximately 8,000 square meters of the property’s total 17,000 square meters of lettable space, with lease terms extending to November 2038. Other prominent occupiers include The Ivy; Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen; Gaucho; Happy Lamb; Wagamama; and TK Maxx.
“By combining timeless architectural quality, sustainable refurbishment and a diversified mix of long-term income profile, we have successfully futureproofed 4–8 St Andrew Square,” said Anthony G. Bull-Diamond, Managing Director of the KanAm Grund Group and Head of Investment and Asset Management Europe. “Today, the property has reinforced its rightful position among Edinburgh’s most prestigious office and leisure addresses.”
Prime location with premium specification and sustainable concept
Originally built in 2016, 4–8 St Andrew Square offers spacious, light-filled office floors, four rooftop terraces, shower and changing facilities as well as ample bicycle parking.
Located in the very center of Edinburgh – only a few minutes’ walk from the main Edinburgh Waverley railway station and the St James Quarter retail and leisure destination – the building is a sought-after address for international occupiers.
Sustainability was also a key focus of the refurbishment programme. Alongside energy-efficient LED lighting, upgraded cooling systems and a living roof improving the microclimate, the use of gas within the building was fully discontinued, marking another step towards a climate-friendly and future-oriented energy supply. The property holds BREEAM “Excellent” certification and an EPC A rating. These features ensure that 4–8 St Andrew Square meets the highest environmental standards and contributes to the KanAm Grund Group’s long-term climate strategy.
A benchmark for forward-looking asset management
Following the completion of the refurbishment, 4–8 St Andrew Square stands as a prime example of the KanAm Grund Group’s ability to successfully combine design excellence, sustainable asset management, and proactive leasing strategies to enhance the long-term value and competitiveness of its European property portfolio.
Local Expertise as a Key Success Factor
The KanAm Grund Group maintains its own office in Mayfair, London. Through this local presence, the London-based team possesses in-depth market knowledge, long-standing relationships with partners and local authorities, and extensive experience in executing complex investment, development and asset management projects.