Michael Saunders & Company will open a new 3,000 square foot office at 400 Central Avenue, marking a significant expansion for the longtime Gulf Coast real estate firm and adding momentum to one of downtown St. Petersburg’s most-watched developments.
The announcement comes as The Residences at 400 Central prepares to welcome its first residents this month.
Developer John Catsimatidis Sr., founder of Red Apple Group, said the firm has played a key role in the tower’s early success.
“Since sales began at 400 Central, the team at Michael Saunders & Co. has been by our side,” Catsimatidis said. “We are excited they have decided to make 400 Central their St. Petersburg flagship location.”
A growing tenant roster
Michael Saunders & Co. becomes the fourth major commercial tenant confirmed at 400 Central.
Earlier this year, Dynasty Financial Partners signed a 45,000 square foot lease to relocate its global headquarters to the tower — one of the largest office commitments in recent St. Petersburg history.
Other signed tenants include Volta Wine & Provisions, which will open a 2,000-square-foot retail wine shop and bar, and a 3,000-square-foot PNC Bank branch on the ground floor.
RELATED: Downtown St. Pete scores major new bank at 400 Central
Michael Saunders & Co. will operate from an interim location at 449 Central Avenue beginning in March 2026 until its new space is complete.
“Our next chapter in St. Petersburg will take place at 400 Central,” said Michael Saunders, founder and CEO. “We look forward to welcoming our clients there this spring.”
A landmark taking shape
The Residences at 400 Central spans an entire city block on the Central Avenue corridor and has reached several major construction milestones.
The development includes:
- A 46-story tower with 301 luxury condos
- Ground floor retail and restaurants
- Class A office space
- An exclusive Sky Observatory on the top floor
Last week, the project received a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for the first 25 floors. Closings for the initial group of condo buyers are expected to begin before the end of the year.
RELATED: 400 Central clears inspections, begins move-ins in downtown St. Pete
Why it matters
400 Central has become a defining project in downtown St. Petersburg’s next phase of growth.
The tenant mix points to a broader shift in the city’s commercial landscape: national firms choosing the urban core, luxury brands expanding their footprint and high-end residential towers attracting year-round activity.
The addition of Michael Saunders & Co. reinforces the project’s position as a new hub for business, hospitality and residential life on Central Avenue.
