Cranbrook ... How We Got Our Name. Where We Got Our Vision.

More than 20 years ago, two men were busy building their careers in commercial real estate.  They each had a dream, and although they had yet to meet, little did they know their paths — and dreams — would intersect.  Their meeting, fortuitously over a piece of land in Modesto, California, that would later be called Landmark Business Center, created a friendship.  This friendship would eventually evolve into a partnership which led to the formation of Cranbrook Group, Inc. and later, the creation of Cranbrook Realty Investment Fund, L.P.

Richard Kulka, Chairman of the Board and Jim Devenport, CEO set out with the goal of acquiring, developing, owning and managing commercial real estate. Richard's "deal making" skills are legendary. From the onset, his ability to spot an opportunity was likened to a sixth sense.

Today, Cranbrook Group, Inc. owns and operates 21 significant properties containing in excess of 2.4 million square feet in the East Bay and Central Valley of California.

Rooted in conservative  management practices and a strong commitment to be the "space" and "place" partner to our more than 400 customers — our team of property professionals are committed to ensuring that our properties hold the distinction of "Right Space. Best Place."

Many people ask ... Where does the name "Cranbrook" come from? Growing up in the Detroit area, our co-founder, Richard Kulka lived near a prestigious school called the Cranbrook Institute.  Although having never attended Cranbrook, it was a school with a stellar reputation.  Since then, while traveling, Richard ran across Cranbrook in another form — a beautiful, quaint town in British Columbia.  He knew that choosing the name Cranbrook was destined to be his.

Jim Devenport, CEO, grew up and continues to live in the Central Valley of California.  His background includes 25+ years in commercial real estate from all disciplines and perspectives.  His education and training as a CPA have allowed Jim to skillfully guide Cranbrook Group, Inc. in the management of the portfolio's properties.