JLL handling leasing and marketing for warehouse turned office

SAN ANTONIO, June 26, 2025 – Building owner and developer TransPecos Development Corp today announced it has selected JLL to handle office leasing efforts at Merchants Ice Building. The 62,901-square-foot trophy office building is a historic redevelopment of the former Merchants Ice and Cold Storage Company warehouse. Last year, the building welcomed its first tenants since 1999 and will soon deliver additional spec suites on the first and third floors, as well as an onsite café. JLL Vice President Robert McDonough has been engaged to handle leasing and marketing at Merchants Ice Building on behalf of the landlord.

A celebrated piece of San Antonio’s history, the former Merchants Ice and Cold Storage Company warehouse has transformed into a functional, employee-centric office destination located within the East Side Innovation District. Expansive green spaces and outdoor areas, including a rooftop tenant lounge, are among the key collaborative features included in the building design. The developer opted to keep the original red brick of this iconic building while utilizing glass to optimize natural light and add a modernized finish.

“The Merchants Ice Building is a true one-of-a-kind offering in the San Antonio market,” said JLL’s McDonough. “Well-located, convenient and thoughtfully designed, this building offers employees a top-of-the-line work environment while honoring the building’s legacy. We’re excited for the continued success to come as we implement new amenities like the café.”

Situated adjacent to lively Downtown San Antonio within the Central Business District (CBD) submarket, Merchants Ice Building provides quick access to Interstate 37 and Commerce Street. Just minutes from historic San Antonio landmarks like The Alamo, St. Paul Square, La Villita and The River Walk, the Class-A office building is also surrounded by several dining options, such as Estate Coffee Co., Black Laboratory Brewing, Con Huevos Tacos and more. Nearby hotels, including the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk and San Antonio Mariott Riverwalk, provide convenient accommodations for business travelers.

“San Antonio is a city with such a rich history, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to be a part of giving new life to a recognizable landmark like Merchants Ice Building,” said Patrick Kennedy, President of TransPecos Financial Corp. “We look forward to ushering in the next tenants at Merchants Ice Building, and are proud to offer a well-designed, highly functional and collaborative office environment.”

TransPecos Banks SSB, a Texas banking organization with locations in West Texas; Kennedy Sutherland LLP, a renowned locally based law firm; and Texas Research & Technology Foundation are among the tenants currently occupying Merchants Ice Building. Ongoing buildout of new speculative suites onsite is anticipated to be complete in August, while the café on the ground floor is expected to complete in October