What are cool space companies looking for?

Continuing yesterday's entry on the Cool Spaces Report, what are the people behind the relocating companies saying they prioritize?

The single most important relocation factors in the report are:
1. Specific location: 40%
2. Price: 19%
3. Proximity to homes upper management/workforce: 15%

As they say in real estate, location, location, location. The specific location is typically associated with a cool neighborhood to begin with, and the upper management/workforce will be leaning the same way. If your city is lacking in these kind of places, it probably has brain drain difficulties.

The most desirable building characteristics are:
1. Primarily lit with natural lighting
2. Has one or more restaurants within a 5-10 minute walk
3. A sidewalk in front of the building
4. Interesting architectural features

As the CEO of one of the companies stated, “Our office in the Strip District is so much cooler than our former space in the suburbs. The building is so flexible and has a good mix of tenants. Plus, it’s exciting that it’s not just a nine-to-five building; people are coming and going all day.”

Image: Dynum + Company, Pittsburgh