Douglas Durst

Douglas Durst is a member of the third generation to run The Durst Organization, one of New York City’s most respected real estate developers, owners and management companies. Founded in 1915 by Douglas’ grandfather Joseph Durst, they have been responsible over the last 90 years for transforming the skyline of midtown Manhattan. Beginning in the late 1950’s, The Durst Organization began to develop office buildings along the Third Avenue corridor from 42nd Street north to 50th Street. When Douglas joined the firm in 1970, it was at the start of their Westside development, which resulted in another three office buildings along The Avenue of the Americas. In 1996, under the leadership of Douglas, The Durst Organization became the catalyst for large-scale office development of the “New Times Square” with the completion of 4 Times Square at 42nd Street and Broadway. 4 Times Square was the first speculative office building that incorporated environmentally responsible design and building practices. The Durst Organization recently completed The Helena, a 6oo unit residential building at 57th Street and 11 Avenue which was designed to be achieve a LEEDS gold rating, and they are constructing The Bank of America Tower at 1 Bryant Park to LEEDS Platinum standard.

Durst is a board member of the Trust for Public Land, REBNY, The Roundabout Theater, The New School for Social Research and Co-Chair of Friends of Hudson River Park. He is a graduate of the University of California Berkeley.