US biotechnology firm Illumina has extended its lease at Berlin's Potsdamer Platz early by five years. The specialist in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies has secured 1,687 square metres of rental space in the Atrium Tower until 2032. Illumina was advised on the transaction by consultancy firm CBRE, while real estate developer and asset manager BGRE represented the owner's interests.
In the Atrium Tower, Illumina operates its regional Solutions Centre, one of the few facilities of its kind in Europe. The space combines offices, laboratories and training areas under one roof. Clients from research, clinical and applied sectors gain access there to modern multiomics, sequencing and analysis technologies. Markus Vossmann, General Manager Germany at Illumina, emphasised that the extension provides the company with essential planning security. The close proximity to partners and institutes as well as international accessibility for visitors from across Europe were decisive factors in remaining at the location.
Expansion of life sciences focus at Potsdamer Platz
By retaining Illumina, the quarter consolidates its positioning as an established life sciences and technology hub. Katharina Treiber, Senior Vice President Asset Management at BGRE, noted that the lease renewal by a leading international player confirms the strength of the offering combining a central location and high-quality space. The decision follows several recent deals in the precinct, including lettings to companies such as Neko Health, Zentiva and Focused Energy in the neighbouring Roger Twins.
In addition to its spatial proximity to Berlin's Charité, renowned research institutes and the government quarter, the district benefits from robust infrastructure. Potsdamer Platz connects occupiers directly to long-distance rail services via regional and local public transport; BER Airport can be reached in 19 minutes via the airport express train. The micro-location is complemented by dining options, the retail complex The Playce, and an established cultural programme.
Sustainability standards across the existing quarter
The complex also meets demanding criteria in terms of sustainability: as one of the first existing mixed-use quarters, Potsdamer Platz holds DGNB Gold certification. BGRE is pursuing structured climate protection roadmaps to achieve climate neutrality by 2045 and has applied green lease contract models across the entire quarter since 2023.
- —1,687 sq m of office, laboratory and training space in the Atrium Tower
- —Five-year lease extension running until 2032
- —Advisory services provided by CBRE for the tenant and BGRE for the owner
- —DGNB Gold-certified quarter with green lease contractual standards
