New York City, January 16, 2026
Watershed Technology has secured a new lease at 440 Lafayette Street in Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood, covering 15,180 square feet. This significant move marks the company’s commitment to sustainability while reflecting the revitalization of commercial real estate in New York City. The new office space will be operational in February 2026 and brings the Lafayette-Astor complex to full occupancy. Founded in 2019, Watershed has quickly become a leader in the sustainability sector, assisting various renowned organizations in managing climate impacts and reducing emissions.
New York City
Watershed Technology Expands Presence in NoHo with New Lease
Watershed Technology, a pioneer in sustainability-focused solutions, has signed a substantial lease agreement at 440 Lafayette Street in the vibrant NoHo neighborhood of Manhattan. This strategic move not only facilitates Watershed’s growth but also reflects the overall revitalization of commercial real estate in New York City as we step into a promising 2026.
With a lease covering 15,180 square feet for three and a half years, Watershed Technology signals its commitment to establishing roots in a neighborhood that has increasingly become a beacon for innovation and entrepreneurship. The new office space will become operational in February 2026, marking the company’s transition from its current location at 233 Spring Street. This development also brings the Lafayette-Astor complex, which includes 440 Lafayette Street, to full occupancy, showcasing a thriving business ecosystem.
About Watershed Technology
Founded in 2019, Watershed Technology has rapidly become an integral player in the sustainability sector. The enterprise sustainability platform assists organizations in managing their climate impacts and effectively reducing emissions. Watershed’s clientele includes notable firms such as Airbnb, Spotify, FedEx, Visa, and Dr. Martens, demonstrating its appeal to both major corporations and environmentally-conscious businesses. The company aims to accelerate the climate economy with innovative tools designed to measure, report, and diminish environmental impacts.
A Glimpse at 440 Lafayette Street
440 Lafayette Street is a historic six-story office building with an intriguing past. Originally constructed in 1871 as a carriage warehouse and transitioned for industrial use in 1879, the building serves as a testament to the adaptive reuse of spaces in New York City. Located near the corner of Lafayette Street and Astor Place, it is within walking distance of Washington Square Park, anchoring it as a prime location for businesses looking to thrive in a dynamic urban setting.
NoHo’s Leveraging Leasing Activity
The leasing landscape in NoHo is witnessing a notable upswing, underscored by significant recent transactions. One of the most remarkable agreements is the 70-year master lease entered into by New York University (NYU) for the entire 15-story building at 770 Broadway, totaling approximately 1.1 million square feet. This expansion strategy highlights NoHo’s appeal as a nexus for academic and technological advancement, attracting institutions eager to foster innovation.
The Economic Landscape in Lower Manhattan
As Watershed Technology furthers its presence in NoHo, it’s beneficial to recognize the broader economic trends reshaping Lower Manhattan. The commercial real estate market continues to evolve, with an average asking rent for office spaces in Lower Manhattan standing at $58.40 per square foot for the fourth quarter of 2025. This competitive pricing illustrates the ongoing demand for office space in the city, driven by innovative companies and the enduring resiliency of small businesses.
Conclusion
The decision by Watershed Technology to lease space at 440 Lafayette Street encapsulates an exciting chapter for both the company and the NoHo neighborhood. As businesses adapt and grow amidst a competitive landscape, their vitality contributes to New York City’s economic strength. Supporting local businesses like Watershed can enhance community engagement and foster a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, ultimately benefiting the broader New York economy. Readers are encouraged to stay engaged and support the local business environment, as it continues to pave the way for future innovations and growth.
FAQ
What is Watershed Technology?
Watershed Technology is an enterprise sustainability platform that helps organizations manage their climate impacts and reduce emissions. Founded in 2019, the company serves a diverse clientele, including leading firms like Airbnb, Spotify, FedEx, Visa, and Dr. Martens. Their mission is to accelerate the climate economy by providing tools for companies to measure, report, and reduce their environmental impacts.
Where is Watershed Technology’s new office located?
Watershed Technology has signed a lease for 15,180 square feet at 440 Lafayette Street in Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood. The company plans to relocate from its current offices at 233 Spring Street in February 2026.
What is the Lafayette-Astor complex?
The Lafayette-Astor complex is a group of office buildings in NoHo, including 440 Lafayette Street, 10 Astor Place, and 740 Broadway. The complex has recently achieved full occupancy, with Watershed Technology’s lease at 440 Lafayette Street marking the final tenant.
What is the historical significance of 440 Lafayette Street?
Built in 1871 as a carriage warehouse and converted for industrial use in 1879, 440 Lafayette Street is a six-story office building located near the corner of Lafayette Street and Astor Place, four blocks east of Washington Square Park. The building is part of the Lafayette-Astor complex, which has recently achieved full occupancy.
What other significant leasing activity has occurred in NoHo?
NoHo has experienced a resurgence in leasing activity, with several significant deals in recent years. Notably, New York University (NYU) signed a 70-year master lease for the entire 15-story building at 770 Broadway, totaling approximately 1.1 million square feet, to expand its campus adjacent to Washington Square Park. This move underscores NoHo’s appeal as a hub for academic and technological advancement.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | Watershed Technology |
| Lease Size | 15,180 square feet |
| Location | 440 Lafayette Street, NoHo, Manhattan |
| Lease Term | Three and a half years |
| Relocation Date | February 2026 |
| Average Asking Rent | $58.40 per square foot (Q4 2025) |
| Historical Significance of Building | Built in 1871 as a carriage warehouse; converted in 1879 |
| Other Notable Leasing Activity in NoHo | NYU signed a 70-year master lease for 770 Broadway, totaling approximately 1.1 million square feet |
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