SS&D will occupy nearly 20,000 sf on the eighth floor of Rondo 1, an 800,000-sf development acquired last year by a partnership of Australian investor Macquarie and UK-based London & Regional Properties for a price said to exceed $350 million. Despite having just opened in 2005, the sale was the third such event for the tower, reflecting investment interest in Warsaw that has continued to heighten as a result of the solid economy.

Designed by American architectural giant Skidmore Owens & Merrill and constructed to address a dearth of modern space in the city, Rondo 1 has proven to be a popular option among users. Upon closing last summer, the new owners unveiled a strategy to increase the presence of global tenants, which at the time comprised about half the occupancy. While they did not disclose what the current level is, the landlords initially expressed a desire to attain a figure closer to 80%. Current occupants include Calyon, Ernst & Young and Volkswagen.

A multi-disciplinary law firm whose practice extends into Asia and the Americas, DD&S anticipates the Rondo 1 office will open by November. The tenant was represented in negotiations by Colliers International. The Colliers brokerage team was led by Marek Ciunowicz, associate director, who explains that the building was selected due to a combination of quality product and layout flexibility, plus Rondo 1's location near the city's main transit station. "Rondo 1 is not only cutting-edge modern architecture, but it also includes excellent facilities," says Ciunowicz, including ample common areas to foster interaction among tenants, plus extensive parking.