Hines, the international real estate firm, and Cousins Properties, the Atlanta-based REIT, announced that Microsoft Corp. has signed a 43,000 square-foot lease at 8000 Avalon, a 224,000 square foot Class A office development in Atlanta, GA.

"We are thrilled that Microsoft will anchor our new 8000 Avalon office development with Cousins," said John Heagy, Senior Managing Director of Hines. "Microsoft is an exceptional global company at the forefront of technology and innovation. We look forward to a strong relationship with Microsoft for many years to come."

8000 Avalon is currently the only office building in Avalon, a leading mixed-use development in Atlanta. Hines and Cousins entered into a joint venture to develop the $72 million project, which is currently under construction. With the Microsoft lease, 8000 Avalon is now 19% leased with initial occupancy slated for second quarter 2017.

"Cousins and Hines are very excited that Microsoft chose 8000 Avalon as its future Atlanta home," said Larry Gellerstedt, president and chief executive officer of Cousins. "Being part of 8000 Avalon puts Microsoft at the center of a vibrant mixed-use district. Not only will Microsoft employees and guests have access to attractive housing options and 580,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, but they will also be located in close proximity to the new 330 room Hotel Avalon and Alpharetta Conference Center, both part of a first class Marriott-affiliated Autograph Collection hotel."

Microsoft was represented in the lease negotiations by Pete Shelton and Drew Levine of Colliers Atlanta.