Patrick Burns Featured in NEREJ’s Spring Preview Spotlight
March 2026
Pat was recently featured in the New England Real Estate Journal’s Spring Preview Spotlight issue, where he shared insights into market activity, what projects are keeping the team busy, and what challenges are shaping the commercial real estate landscape over the next couple of months. Below is what he had to say.
What trends or market activity are you seeing as we move into the spring season?
As an owner’s project manager, my primary focus over the past few years has been the fit-out of office space. There is a growing trend toward enhancing the workplace experience, aiming to create an office worth commuting to. These enhancements can range from high-end coffee machines in office “pantries” to an entire floor dedicated to a full-service restaurant offering significant discounts to employees.
What projects, initiatives, or types of work are currently keeping your team busiest?
I am extremely fortunate to collaborate with a talented team, both on the client side and within Northstar. We are managing a significant number of improvements to the office building in Cambridge, including an enhanced cafeteria, workspace, and conference center, and the completion of the fit-out of the 3 remaining vacant floors. Additionally, we will be managing the fit-out of the rest of a floor in an office building in New Jersey this fall, as well as the fit-out of several laboratories in Cambridge, while also beginning a laboratory project in Waltham. The coordination of this work in occupied spaces is a significant strength for my team, and I am extremely proud of all their efforts.
What opportunities or challenges do you see shaping the commercial real estate landscape over the next several months?
Political uncertainty is contributing to a significant amount of uncertainty in the real estate and construction industries. The mood appears to be more cautious than optimistic. On the positive side, there is a demand for Class A office space. JP Morgan’s recent lease at South Station seems to align with that trend. Office-to-residential conversions seem to be gaining traction, with the largest one in Worcester recently receiving funding. We remain flexible in meeting our clients’ needs and function as trusted advisors.
Patrick is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of industry experience. He brings a unique owner’s perspective, having spent 30 years in the utility industry, including facility-related operations, maintenance, and project management. He is knowledgeable across all facets of project management, including civil engineering and real estate economics, and is skilled in budgeting and actual cost analyses.
