VanTrust Real Estate, NAIOP’s 2023 Developer of the Year, is proud to be part of the Salt Lake City development community – bringing a proven track record of thoughtful, community-minded projects to one of the nation’s most dynamic markets.

“This market has exceptional growth prospects driven by strong population trends, economic vitality, a business-friendly climate, and a high quality of life,” said Dave Harrison, President and CEO of VanTrust.  “We believe our community-centric approach is an ideal fit for Utah.” 

Local projects

Since opening its newest regional office in Salt Lake City in 2023, VanTrust has quickly established a meaningful local presence. The company purchased the historic Salt Lake Lumber Building in downtown Salt Lake City and has transformed it into a contemporary office space that serves both as its regional headquarters and as a hub for other Utah businesses. Construction was completed in March of this year. 

Entrance to the Salt Lake Lumber Building at 205 N. 400 West. Credit: Jared Kenitzer

Staircase in the Lumber Building. Credit: Jared Kenitzer

One of the available suites in the Lumber Building. Credit: Jared Kenitzer

VanTrust has also acquired 37 acres in West Valley City, where it is developing Nexus Industrial Park. Consisting of four buildings designed to meet growing demand for high-quality logistics and warehouse space, construction on the first two buildings is now underway.

Nexus Industrial Park under construction in West Valley City, UT. Credit: VanTrust Real Estate

Profile of the firm

Founded in 2010, VanTrust is a national, family-held company that has grown into one of the nation’s largest privately held commercial real estate firms. Headquartered in Kansas City, the full-service development company also operates offices in Columbus, Dallas, Phoenix, Jacksonville, and Salt Lake City. VanTrust has developed more than 73 million square feet of office, industrial, multifamily, science + technology, and mixed-use projects, totaling over $8 billion in value nationwide. 

“We live by our motto ‘Developing with a Difference,’” said Chris McCluskey, VanTrust’s Executive Vice President of Development for Salt Lake City.  “That means acting as responsible stewards of the communities where we build. We deliver projects that become part of the local fabric and strengthen it.”

Tenant Lounge in the Lumber Building. Credit: VanTrust Real Estate

McCluskey also emphasized VanTrust’s strong capital support of the Van Tuyl family as a key differentiator.  “Our unique capital structure and access to equity give us the flexibility to pursue significant, long-term projects that align with both market opportunity and community needs,” he said.

VanTrust sees its mission as transforming the perception of what a real estate developer should be. As a trusted & premier partner, our goal is to exceed expectations with an innovative approach for those who occupy & invest in our properties. We do this by creating great real estate with enduring value, while building a brighter, more sustainable future for our communities.

Entrance to the VanTrust office in the Lumber Building. Credit: VanTrust Real Estate

“Developing with a Difference” represents more than finding the right site or building a successful project – it embodies a commitment to integrity, collaboration, and excellence. VanTrust is eager to bring that spirit to Utah’s dynamic market, contributing to the state’s continued growth and vibrancy. 

 The Salt Lake City regional office positions VanTrust to expand its portfolio across the Northwest markets of the country. With particular focus on Utah, Idaho, Northern California, Oregon, and Washington, it will strengthen connections and shape communities across this region. Learn more about VanTrust Real Estate here.