In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the European real estate market, U.S.-based investment firm Greykite has recruited key executives from Goldman Sachs and Starwood Capital Group. These high-profile appointments mark a new phase in the company’s growth, emphasizing sustainability, digital innovation, and mixed-use redevelopment across Europe.
Momentum from Former Goldman and Starwood Leaders
Greykite has officially announced that Anna Lorenz, previously Managing Director at Goldman Sachs Real Estate Europe, has been appointed Head of Strategy for Greykite’s European operations. Joining her is Rafael Benavides, a former Senior Investment Director at Starwood Capital, who will now lead investment initiatives across Southern Europe.
Anna Lorenz commented:
“Greykite is uniquely positioned—we have the agility of a startup and the capital strength of an institutional firm. We can implement ESG-driven strategies and rethink assets in markets where innovation is a competitive necessity.”
Why Europe?
Despite economic headwinds, Europe remains an attractive destination for investors seeking long-term value through sustainable and adaptive real estate. New EU energy efficiency regulations and the continued evolution of flexible workspace and housing post-pandemic have made Europe a priority for Greykite.
Michael Shapiro, CEO of Greykite, explained:
“Europe is a proving ground for modern development models. ESG, hybrid offices, and digitalization aren’t just trends—they’re the future of real estate.”
First Projects in Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands
Greykite is currently in talks to acquire properties in Berlin, Barcelona, and Rotterdam. These include both the redevelopment of outdated office buildings into modern mixed-use hubs and the creation of smart residential districts integrated with sustainable infrastructure.
According to industry sources, one transaction nearing completion involves the acquisition of a Berlin office building for €56 million, which will be converted into a hybrid complex featuring loft apartments, co-working spaces, and community areas.
Core Strategy: Flexibility, ESG, Digitalization
Greykite’s expansion across Europe centers on three pillars:
- ESG Investment – focusing on assets that meet BREEAM and LEED certification standards
- Hybrid Workspaces – developing models that combine traditional offices, co-working, and residential units
- Digital Innovation – integrating building data analytics, digital twins, and tenant experience platforms
Rafael Benavides stated:
“Modern real estate needs to be both sustainable and smart. We’re investing in technologies that make properties more adaptive and profitable over the long term.”
Industry Reactions
The appointment of former Goldman and Starwood leaders has attracted attention from market observers and competitors.
Simone Galleri, Managing Director at Savills Milan, commented:
“Greykite is moving with precision. Hiring names like these shows they’re serious—they’re not testing the waters, they’re diving in.”
Julien Marchais, analyst at BNP Paribas Real Estate, added:
“The sustainable redevelopment niche in Europe is far from saturated. If Greykite maintains flexibility in approach, they could scale quickly.”
Ambitious Targets by 2026
Greykite plans to build a €1 billion European asset portfolio by the end of 2026. The strategy focuses on acquiring undervalued or distressed properties in tech and business districts and converting them into sustainable and income-generating spaces.
The firm is also exploring the launch of a co-managed fund with institutional partners in Germany and the Benelux region, potentially using SPV structures for regional developments.
Social and Environmental Focus
Greykite is committed to projects that provide:
- Affordable housing in collaboration with local municipalities
- Urban infrastructure enhancements including bike lanes, green zones, and energy-efficient public lighting
- Inclusive design principles with housing and offices accessible to diverse demographics
Transparency and Accountability
Beyond expansion, Greykite aims to be seen as a transparent and responsible market player. The firm has pledged to publish regular ESG reports aligned with the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR).
Conclusion
With former Goldman Sachs and Starwood Capital leaders onboard, Greykite is entering the European market with bold ambitions. This expansion is not opportunistic—it reflects a carefully crafted strategy based on macroeconomic analysis and urban development trends.
By embracing ESG, technology, and hybrid models, Greykite positions itself as one of the most compelling new players to watch in the European real estate arena.
Anna Lorenz concluded:
“Europe’s real estate market needs fresh thinking. We’re not here to replicate old models—we’re here to build new ones.”
