Microsoft silicon valley campus

Since CLT is a relatively new building material in the US, this project involved considerable coordination with the local building authority to understand the performance of new mass timber technologies. Holmes worked with WRNS to achieve fire ratings that also kept a consistent campus aesthetic of uncovered CLT and steel, exposing structural supports beams and columns where possible while embedding connection details within the wood.

Across the campus, design triggers an organic, intuitive interplay between built and natural environments. Low-lying two-story buildings complement the surrounding Stevens Creek biome without hindering expansive views of the natural scenery. Simultaneously, the campus activates new habitats, including a campus-wide living roof with carefully selected native and adapted plant species.

Office neighborhoods are arranged around internal courtyards, providing moments of pause and outdoor tranquility. A network of pedestrian and bike trails winds throughout the grounds, encouraging a healthy and active workforce. Custom outdoor staircases, rooftop decks and bridges also heighten employee mobility. Interior spaces harness natural light through abundant clerestory windows and skylights.

The conscientious client sought to understand the implications of removal, rehabilitation, and expansion of the existing structures onsite. Holmes explored the life cycle impacts of prospective structural systems and seismic performance objectives with the design team and client.

In lieu of tearing down the entire campus and starting from square one, the client gave new life to two existing buildings and reduced the overall carbon impact of the project.

Parts of the demolished buildings were crushed and reused under the foundations of the new CLT structure. From operable windows and ceiling fans to movable walls and furniture, every aspect of design puts user comfort first. The project invites interaction and modification to its spaces, recognizing the importance of diversity and choice. Given the pandemic, some construction stretched out resulting in some photos showing construction debris.

Each year, ten innovative projects earn the prize for setting the standard in design and sustainability. Project site: Previously developed land Building program type s : Office - , or greater. Jury Erica Cochran Hameen, Assoc. Image credits Bruce Damonte. Bruce Damonte.