about

A Legacy of Timeless Luxury

DAB Investments LLC is a premier real estate development and investment firm headquartered in Manhattan, New York. Founded in 2005 and led by CEO David Friedman, the company specializes in acquiring architecturally significant buildings in prime or emerging locations across New York City and Miami. DAB Investments is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to exceptional quality throughout the development process.

The firm’s expertise encompasses value-add and opportunistic investments, focusing on ground-up developments and conversions. DAB Investments collaborates closely with a select group of attorneys, architects, zoning specialists, expediters, general contractors, and realtors to ensure excellence in every project.

A notable example of DAB Investments’ dedication to craftsmanship is the restoration and condominium conversion of 51-53 White Street in Tribeca. Originally constructed in 1858, this historic cast-iron building underwent a comprehensive renovation, including façade restoration, a new mezzanine level, and a two-story addition. The project resulted in seven luxurious loft residences featuring exposed brick walls, cast-iron columns, wood beams, radiant heated floors, and high-end amenities such as a fitness center, infrared sauna, and private massage room.

DAB Investments’ portfolio extends beyond Manhattan, and either owns or manages a diverse range of luxury apartments and houses, continually expanding through both bulk and individual acquisitions.

Meet the Founder

Meet the Founder

The Vision Behind Every Detail

At the heart of DAB Investments is David Friedman, a developer with an unwavering dedication to excellence and design. Originally from South Africa, David moved to New York City with a bold vision—to create spaces that preserve the past while setting new standards for luxury living.

David’s role is not symbolic—he is deeply involved in every phase of development. From acquisition and landmark negotiations to floorplan layouts and final finishes, his hands-on approach ensures each project reflects his personal vision. He is both the strategist and the tastemaker, overseeing every detail with care.

His signature project, the restoration of 51 White Street in Tribeca, transformed a 19th-century building into a showpiece of luxury living. Under David’s leadership, DAB Investments continues to raise the bar by delivering residences that are as rich in story as they are in style.

“Do it once. Do it right. Make it exceptional.”

— David Friedman

51 White Street

51 White Street: A Case Study in Excellence

One of the firm’s most celebrated projects, 51 White Street, exemplifies DAB’s philosophy. This historic cast-iron and marble building, originally constructed in the 1850s, had fallen into disrepair. Under David’s leadership, it underwent a full restoration, including the revival of its ornate façade, structural reinforcement, and the addition of a discreet two-story penthouse.

The result: a collection of grandly scaled luxury residences that merge architectural heritage with modern sophistication—setting a new benchmark for luxury restoration in downtown Manhattan.

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Our Process

Each DAB project is built on four core principles:

Vision

Identifying and acquiring properties with untapped potential

Preservation

Honoring architectural history through sensitive restoration

Innovation

Enhancing form and function with modern design and technology

Execution

Delivering end-to-end excellence through active, personal involvement

Additional Value

Unlocking hidden potential by increasing usable square footage through strategic architectural modifications

Whether restoring landmark buildings or developing from the ground up, DAB Investments approaches every project with the same philosophy:

Maximize value, honor design, and create something timeless and irreplaceable.

From increasing ceiling heights in sub-cellars to adding new mezzanines, duplex layouts, and expansive penthouse levels—our projects are shaped not only by vision and design, but by a strategic focus on adding square footage and value at every opportunity.

Looking Ahead

As DAB Investments continues to expand its portfolio across New York and beyond, the mission remains the same: to develop properties that combine elegance, authenticity, and lasting value. Each project is not just a development—it’s a statement of what refined living should look like.