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At a time when in-real-life socializing is surging, longtime City Club Raleigh has made the tough decision to shutter for good after 45 years as a beacon of community and connection in the Cap City at the conclusion of its current lease Dec. 31, with a Farewell Holiday Party and a final NYE Early Dinner scheduled for Dec. 20 and Dec. 31, respectively.
Positioned proudly on the penthouse levels of 150 Fayetteville (aka the former Wells Fargo Capitol Center) for more than a decade, CCR has made an indelible impact—not to mention created infinite memories via meals, events, unions, receptions, celebrations, gatherings and beyond.
Now, the Triangle’s largest law firm and longtime 150 Fayetteville tenant Smith Anderson has doubled down on Downtown by reupping its five-floor lease (save a half-floor they are relinquishing) while garnering the two top floors and signage rights of the iconic 30-story tower.
“We want to help Downtown continue to revitalize post-pandemic,” says Smith Anderson Managing Partner Byron Kirkland, “and as one of the largest private employers in the Downtown area, we are excited that we can play a significant role in doing that.”
About far more than office space, the lease extension is a boost for the city core via a block of Main Street—and a tower—that are already big talkers of late with openings of 150 Fayetteville ground-floor Birdie’s Barroom and Kitchen, as well as adjacent Diced, and soon bowing Insomnia Cookies and PrimoHoagies.
“Keeping Smith Anderson is a massive win for Downtown’s continued upward trajectory,” says Downtown Raleigh Alliance President and CEO Bill King, “as we add a flurry of new storefront businesses and build momentum for North Carolina’s Main Street. Not only are we keeping a major employer in the heart of Downtown, but we are keeping a company that consistently has participated and led in efforts to elevate Downtown Raleigh.”
“Smith Anderson’s reinvestment in downtown Raleigh shows the confidence one of our city’s long-standing business leaders has in keeping our urban core thriving,” Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell said. “Downtown’s success depends on everyone working together – the city, businesses, institutions and the community.”
Having called Fayetteville Street home for over a century, Smith Anderson will begin renovations to all seven of its floors this March, with a completion slated for mid-2026. Expect the reno to significantly modernize the space, establishing a striking two-story window topping the tower in the firm’s lobby and serving stunning skyline views, as well as huddle rooms, hoteling/flex offices, wellness areas on each floor, elevated tech, expanded conference room areas and a leveled-up firm cafe.
“We were deliberate in making the move ourselves Downtown in 2022 to 150 Fayetteville Street,” says Ted Klinck, president and CEO of Highwoods Properties, which owns 150 Fayetteville. … “We believe Fayetteville Street is North Carolina’s Main Street, and we very much appreciate the opportunity to serve as Smith Anderson’s workplace partner. In partnership with the city and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, we’re committed to making Downtown the most commuteworthy Best Business District we can.”
Having already received recognition for its business savvy, “North Carolina is one of the best states to do business in the country,” acknowledges Kirkland. “Raleigh is one of the best places to do business in North Carolina, and Raleigh deserves a resilient and lively Downtown. We’re thrilled to be part of that vision.”
And that commitment, says King, “is a critical step in bringing Downtown back.”
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