Ralph Zucker

Somerset Development achieved the nearly unthinkable, transforming the former Bell Labs into the current 2 million-square-foot multifaceted Bell Works in Holmdel. In 2022, that company, where Zucker is CEO and founder, transformed itself, rebranding to Inspired. “[W]e’re harnessing the lessons from our storied history, and building upon them for a new era of innovative and sustainable redevelopment,” Zucker said over the summer.

Guided by its modern spin on New Urbanism, work is underway in Chicago for the company’s second metroburb and now that there’s a plan in place, Inspired has eyes on developing more of the destinations. The timing could be right for that kind of roll-out, in a post-COVID environment where employers are looking to draw workers back to cooperative spaces.

The company expanded its residential portfolio in 2022 as well, as demand for housing persists, partnering with iStar to make its entrance to Asbury Park with plans for a luxury community located along 5th Avenue. Also in the shore area, the company scooped up 15 acres at the former Fort Monmouth where it plans to build 144 townhouses and 36 affordable units.