What do MasterCard, Diageo, Microsoft, Gillette, Staples and Alltel Wireless have in common beyond their status as category-leading brands? They are all clients of Taylor, the preeminent lifestyle and sports public relations agency that recently signed a lease for the entire 38th floor of the Empire State Building.

"We are very selective in our choices of client partners," says managing partner Bryan Harris. "In our search for office space, we applied similar criteria. That's how we ended up at the Empire State Building. It's a global icon that befits our leadership position, and the space really allows for a productive and collaborative work environment. We're proud that it will be our home for many years to come."

The move follows several important developments at Taylor, he notes. Within the past year alone, Taylor introduced its new corporate identity and brand positioning, opened new offices in London and Los Angeles, experienced significant growth in its New York and Charlotte offices, and was named "2007 Midsize Agency of the Year" by the Holmes Report, a highly regarded trade publication that covers the public relations industry.

According to Holmes, the firm has had great success since a new management team took over in 2004, doubling its fee income to more than $18 million and cutting its client roster to a third of its previous size by developing "deeper, broader relationships with some of the world's most prestigious brands." In addition, the report notes that in 2006, Taylor's revenue growth was approximately 34 percent, and that it added close to $5 million in new business.

Taylor's New York office will relocate to the Empire State Building in early 2008 from its current location at 14 Penn Plaza. "We had a walk through the other week," says Mr. Harris. "Steve Eynon, the leasing manager, showed us the plans and the views, and told us about the extensive upgrades to the property. The response was extremely positive. It's fun to stand there and envision what things are going to look like six months from now."

(Please see an interview with Jim Wenk, Taylor's broker.)