Harmony Group

Real Estate Investment Firm

Harmony Group is a vertically integrated commercial real estate investment and development firm based in Albany, New York. The company has established a strong and consistent track record in identifying undervalued properties, transforming distressed assets, and executing highly complex development projects nationwide. Harmony Group is known for its expertise in revitalizing historic properties, blending modern needs with architectural preservation.

Fostering Community Development and Excellence

With Harmony Group, business partners set out to develop high-quality assets that would improve, enhance, and better local communities. The company is committed to owning and operating best-in-class assets while maintaining a high standard of excellence and service. The team at Harmony Group is dedicated to responding to tenants’ needs and positively contributing to the community. Harmony Group ensures that each project exceeds expectations through attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality.

A core value at Harmony Group Capital, LLC, is historic preservation. Rather than demolishing old buildings, the company focuses on honoring and elevating the architectural integrity of each property while transforming it to meet modern demands. Founder Kaufman believes that architecture is more than just a functional necessity—it is a form of art that shapes the identity of neighborhoods. Each redevelopment project represents an opportunity to preserve a building’s cultural relevance while providing lasting value for the future.

Achievements in Historic Restoration and Renovation

One of Harmony Group’s key projects is the restoration of Harmony Mills in Cohoes, New York. Initially built in 1872, Harmony Mills was the world’s largest cotton mill. The $25 million renovation converted the building into an 850,000 square foot residential complex featuring 231 luxury units along the Mohawk River. The project’s goal was to create a modern loft-style community similar to the iconic SoHo and TriBeCa neighborhoods in New York City, a goal successfully achieved through two phases: the first in 2007 and the second in 2010, adding 135 additional units.

The redevelopment of Harmony Mills includes 14- to 17-foot ceilings, indoor parking, a fitness room, an indoor pool, and modern amenities while keeping the building’s Victorian architecture intact. The sleek design complements the original structure, blending contemporary living with historic charm. The project has been widely praised for its success in preserving New York’s architectural heritage. It is featured on the New York State Historic Preservation Office website as an exemplary restoration.

Another significant project for Harmony Group is the Albany Lofts at One Broadway. Located in Menands, New York, this project converted the former Albany Felt Company headquarters into high-end residential lofts. The building, which dates back to 1895, was preserved with original elements such as industrial windows, high vaulted ceilings, and hardwood floors, while also providing modern living spaces. The project resulted in 145 upscale studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, reinvigorating the neighborhood and providing a balance of modern comfort and historical significance.

Breathing New Life into Communities

The impact of Harmony Group’s work goes beyond the buildings they redevelop. For example, the renovation of Harmony Mills helped reverse the population decline that had affected Cohoes for decades. With the completion of the project, the city saw population growth for the first time since 1930. Harmony Group’s adaptive reuse of historic buildings has proven to be a powerful tool for community revitalization, contributing to local areas’ economic and social growth.

By transforming abandoned industrial sites into modern residential spaces, Harmony Group has played a critical role in enhancing the long-term success of these communities. The company’s commitment to preserving the past while meeting the needs of today’s residents sets a standard for responsible development that creates lasting value.

From Attorney to Visionary Developer

The story of Harmony Group’s founder, Uri Kaufman, exemplifies the company’s commitment to passion and purpose. Originally an attorney from Long Island, New York, Kaufman was drawn to the potential of real estate development in Upstate New York, where many historic industrial buildings stood ready for transformation. Kaufman left his legal career behind to found Harmony Group, merging his passion for historic preservation with a vision for community revitalization. He aimed to repurpose underused industrial buildings into vibrant, modern living spaces that honor the past while creating lasting value.

Under Kaufman’s leadership, Harmony Group has become a leader in transforming historic properties into thriving residential communities. Kaufman’s focus on maintaining the architectural significance of each project has been instrumental in the company’s success. His vision continues to guide Harmony Group as it revitalizes neighborhoods and creates sustainable communities.