Founded in 1957 by renowned architect and developer John C. Portman Jr., Portman pioneered the architect-as-developer model, establishing a legacy that continues to shape the firm today. Over nearly 70 years, Portman has owned, managed, and developed more than 80 million square feet across three continents, building a track record of creating transformative destinations that deliver lasting value for investors, tenants, and the communities they serve.
Guided by John Portman’s vision of integrating architectural excellence with commercial viability, the firm approaches each investment with a long-term perspective and a commitment to thoughtful design, innovation, and responsible development. This foundation has enabled Portman to navigate complex real estate opportunities, generate sustainable returns, and cultivate enduring relationships built on trust, integrity, and shared success.
Portman by the Numbers
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Capital Raised and Deployed$20B
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Assets Under Management$5B
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Square Feet Developed80M
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Active Markets27
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Employees123
A Legacy of Design
AmericasMart Atlanta was originally opened in 1957 as the Atlanta Market Center, AmericasMart Atlanta has undergone development across multiple phases. Today, it comprises a fully integrated campus encompassing three buildings that total seven million square feet and 51 floors.
The original 800-room building of Hyatt Regency debuted in 1967, marking the start of Hyatt's evolution from a motel-focused company to a renowned global hotel brand. This establishment is renowned for pioneering the atrium concept in modern hotel design.
A Legacy of Design
Portman oversaw the development of Embarcadero Center in multiple stages from 1971 to 1989, transforming a former warehouse district into premium real estate and igniting urban renewal. Encompassing eight city blocks, this complex stands as one of the largest mixed-use developments in the western United States.
Portman spearheaded the development of the Westin Bonaventure to kickstart urban renewal in the Bunker Hill Section of Los Angeles, following a plan devised by the city government. It officially opened its doors in 1977 and has since become one of the world's most photographed buildings, owing to its striking architecture and prime downtown location.
A Legacy of Design
The Westin Peachtree Plaza boasts 1,100 rooms, 87,000 square feet of meeting space, and a revolving rooftop restaurant offering panoramic 360-degree views of Atlanta. Upon its inauguration in 1976, this convention center hotel held the distinction of being the tallest hotel globally.
In 1985, Portman Holdings joined forces with the Marriott family and Marriott International to build this hotel, meeting the growing need for lodging in the city's convention district. It stands as the 14th tallest skyscraper in the city, boasting 1,663 rooms, including 94 suites. Notably, the hotel is recognized for its Brutalist architecture.
A Legacy of Design
Spanning 19.6 million square feet, the Peachtree Center complex sprawls across 14 city blocks in downtown Atlanta, making it the largest mixed-use development in the city. The complex gained international recognition when it was chosen by the United States Department of State to be showcased in an exhibition at the 2010 Biennale Architettura in Venice, Italy. This selection highlighted the collaborative efforts of development and design in fostering a lasting and beneficial influence on urban environments worldwide.
Portman Holdings collaborated with the Marriott family and Marriott International in developing this hotel, kickstarting a revitalization plan for Times Square orchestrated by New York’s mayor during the 1970s. Spanning an entire city block, the hotel encompasses a 1,600-seat Broadway theater and one of New York City’s largest ballrooms.
A Legacy of Design
Marina Square spans 2.5 million square feet and effectively transformed an unused landfill site into a premier waterfront destination, catering to both locals and tourists and injecting a significant boost into the local economy. Portman Holdings collaborated with a consortium of Asian investors, including Singapore Land, Shing Kwan Investments, CY Paul, Lim Soe Long, United Overseas Bank, and Overseas Union Bank, to fund this development, which debuted in 1987.
Shanghai Centre opened in 1990, intended to serve the international business community in growing in China at that time. Portman Holdings partnered with AIG and Kajima Corporation to develop this project – the first foreign development in China after the country’s market opened up in the 1980s.
Leading the Way
Today, the company is led by Chairman and CEO, Ambrish Baisiwala, President, John Portman, IV, and Chief Development Officer, Travis Garland.
Our diverse team establishes the benchmark for excellence in crafting office spaces, residential homes, industrial warehouses, hospitality venues, and retail complexes, both as integrated mixed-use developments and stand-alone projects throughout the United States.
Their unwavering commitment and unmatched expertise empower us to bring visionary concepts to life.
