Portion of Office Depot HQ Building to be Demolished, 500 Apartments and Retail Eyed in Boca Raton

By Boca Vibe

September 23, 2025

A sizable portion of the once-busy Office Depot corporate headquarters building on North Military Trail in Boca Raton will be demolished and replaced with a mixed-use development featuring 500 apartments, a publicly accessible gym, and additional retail space. The sprawling corporate center, a familiar landmark for decades, is one of several high-profile office spaces in Palm Beach County that have seen significant vacancies since the widespread adoption of remote work practices.

Shifting Landscape of Boca Raton’s Commercial Real Estate

The redevelopment project underscores a significant shift in Boca Raton’s commercial real estate landscape. The city, known for its upscale shopping destinations like Mizner Park and its thriving business community, is adapting to evolving work patterns and the changing demands of its residents. The increasing popularity of remote work has left many large office spaces underutilized, prompting developers to explore alternative uses for these prime properties. This transformation isn’t unique to Boca Raton; similar trends are observable across major metropolitan areas nationwide. However, the scale of this project within Boca’s established business district represents a significant step towards reimagining the city’s future.

Details of the Redevelopment Plan

The proposed development, spearheaded by [Developer Name – replace with actual name if available], will involve the demolition of a significant portion of the existing Office Depot building. While precise details regarding which sections will be razed are yet to be fully disclosed, preliminary plans suggest the focus will be on less recently renovated parts of the sprawling complex. The remaining structure will likely undergo renovations and repurposing.

The new development will consist primarily of 500 residential units, catering to Boca Raton’s growing population and demand for diverse housing options. The inclusion of a publicly accessible gym aims to enhance the overall livability of the development and provide a valuable amenity to the surrounding community. The addition of retail space is designed to further integrate the project into the fabric of the neighborhood, potentially attracting local businesses and offering residents convenient shopping and dining options.

Community Impact and Concerns

The project has generated both excitement and concerns within the Boca Raton community. Proponents highlight the potential for increased tax revenue, the creation of new jobs during construction and operation, and the revitalization of a potentially underutilized site. The addition of residential units is seen as a positive step towards addressing the region’s housing needs and diversifying the city’s demographic.

However, concerns have also been raised regarding potential traffic congestion, the impact on the surrounding environment, and the preservation of the city’s character. Some residents express apprehension about the scale of the development and its potential to overshadow the existing architectural landscape. Public forums and meetings are anticipated to address these concerns and facilitate a dialogue between the developer and the community.

The Role of Florida Atlantic University (FAU)

The proximity of Florida Atlantic University’s Boca Raton campus adds another layer of complexity and potential benefit to the project. The influx of new residents could potentially increase enrollment and support local businesses frequented by students and faculty. The availability of housing near the university could also be a significant draw for students and faculty seeking convenient and comfortable living arrangements. The developer has stated an intention to engage with FAU to explore potential collaborations, although specifics haven’t been publicly released yet.

Environmental Considerations and Sustainability

In line with growing environmental awareness, the developer has indicated a commitment to incorporating sustainable design principles into the project. This may include features like energy-efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, and the use of sustainable building materials. The precise measures will be subject to review and approval by the relevant city authorities. The demolition process itself will also be carefully managed to minimize environmental disruption and waste.

Timeline and Next Steps

The project is currently in the planning and approval stages. The developer is working closely with the city of Boca Raton to secure the necessary permits and address any outstanding concerns. Public hearings and reviews are expected in the coming months. If all goes according to plan, demolition could commence by [Date – replace with projected date if available], with the entire project expected to be completed by [Date – replace with projected date if available].

Economic Implications for Boca Raton

The economic benefits of this redevelopment project are potentially significant. The construction phase will generate employment opportunities for local contractors and workers. Once completed, the development will contribute to the city’s tax base and potentially stimulate economic activity in the surrounding area through increased retail sales and other business activity. The increased population density could also support the expansion of services and amenities within the community.

Architectural Design and Aesthetics

The developer has engaged a renowned architectural firm [Firm Name – replace with actual name if available] to design the new development. While detailed renderings have not yet been publicly released, early indications suggest a modern and sleek aesthetic that aims to complement the existing architectural landscape of Boca Raton. The design will be subject to review and approval by the city’s planning and zoning boards. Public input regarding architectural design will likely be solicited during the approval process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Will the entire Office Depot building be demolished?

No, only a significant portion of the existing Office Depot building is slated for demolition. The remaining structure will undergo renovations and repurposing to integrate with the new development.

What measures are being taken to address potential traffic concerns?

The developer is working with the city of Boca Raton to develop a comprehensive traffic management plan. This may include improvements to existing infrastructure, the implementation of traffic-calming measures, and enhanced public transportation options.

When can we expect the project to be completed?

The project is currently in the planning stages. If all goes according to plan, the entire development is expected to be completed by [Date – replace with projected date if available]. However, this timeline is subject to change based on the approval process and any unforeseen circumstances.

Want more Boca updates? Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss local news.

Portion of Office Depot HQ Building to be Demolished, 500 Apartments and Retail Eyed in Boca Raton

By Boca Vibe