Smith Anderson Lights Up Raleigh Skyline

Smith Anderson officially lit up the Raleigh skyline last night with new signage atop 150 Fayetteville, marking a major milestone in the firm’s growth and its 113-year history in downtown Raleigh. Crowning the 30-story high-rise formerly known as the Wells Fargo Capitol Center, the firm’s name and logo are now visible from the west-facing side of the building (Salisbury St.), with the south-facing (Hargett St.) installation expected to be completed in early January.  

To celebrate, the firm hosted its first event in a newly renovated space high above Fayetteville Street, bringing together colleagues, construction success partners, community leaders and Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell for a ceremonial lighting reveal. The evening commemorated Smith Anderson’s continued investment in the city it has called home for more than a century. Managing Partner Byron Kirkland opened the ceremony, reflecting on the firm’s deep roots in downtown Raleigh and its confidence in the city’s future.

“Every successful business and institution has one or more events in their history that stands out and serves as a catalyst for more growth, more success and renewed vitality and optimism,” said Byron. “I truly believe that we are at one of those points not only at Smith Anderson but also for downtown Raleigh.” 

Mayor Cowell celebrated the momentum and energy of Raleigh’s growth before leading guests in a countdown to the moment the skyline gains a new point of light. As the Smith Anderson sign illuminated, drone footage captured the moment from outside, while guests inside toasted the occasion against sweeping views of the city. 

A Continued Investment in Downtown Raleigh

The new signage is part of a broader, long-term investment in downtown Raleigh. In late 2024, Smith Anderson extended its lease with Highwoods Properties for an additional 13 years, reinforcing its commitment to remaining in the heart of the city. The firm is also in the midst of a significant office expansion and renovation with renovations on track for completion in January 2026, ultimately occupying the top seven floors of the building, including the two top floors formerly home to City Club Raleigh.

With nearly 300 people based in Raleigh, Smith Anderson remains one of the largest private employers downtown and continues to grow alongside the city. As the newly illuminated sign now shines across the skyline, Smith Anderson celebrates not just a new look, but a continued commitment to downtown Raleigh and the future ahead. 

A very special thank you to Smith Anderson’s Rob Baker, an FAA-certified drone pilot, for capturing stunning aerial footage of the lighting reveal.