Amazon Spheres
|
Seattle, WA
- Iconic glass domes with immersive plant-filled workplace
- Flexible meeting, retail, and event spaces for engagement
- Complex geometric façade with precision-engineered structure
- Public-facing exhibits and programming through The Understory
60K SF
2018
LEED Gold Certified
Challenge
Creating a globally recognizable architectural landmark that functioned equally as a workplace, an immersive retreat, and a client engagement hub required balancing ambitious design with practical performance. The highly complex structural and façade system demanded precision engineering, while the integration of a living botanical environment introduced unique environmental and operational requirements. At the same time, the space needed to support a wide range of uses, from informal collaboration to high-profile executive events, all within a dense urban campus and rigorous entitlement framework.
Solution
Seneca Group led development management from early site strategy through design and construction, aligning vision, technical execution, and stakeholder priorities. We guided entitlement and permitting processes, coordinated a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and builders, and managed the delivery of a highly specialized structure. Close collaboration across all partners ensured the façade system, environmental controls, and interior programming were seamlessly integrated. Our team also oversaw the incorporation of flexible meeting and event spaces, retail, and public-facing elements to support both employee experience and client engagement.
Outcome & Impact
Now one of the most recognizable elements of Amazon’s campus, The Spheres redefine what a workplace amenity can be. The five-story structure includes flexible meeting, event, retail, and collaboration space within three interconnected glass domes, the largest reaching nearly 130 feet in diameter. Housing more than 400 plant species and tens of thousands of plants sourced from over 50 countries, the building creates a one-of-a-kind environment where nature, design, and technology intersect to support creativity, collaboration, and connection. Employees and visitors alike benefit from an immersive space that encourages new ways of thinking, while The Understory extends that experience to the broader community through exhibits, events, and educational programming. As both a functional workplace and a global architectural icon, The Spheres elevate Amazon’s campus and brand in a meaningful way.
Project Partners
NBBJ
Architect
Sellen Construction
General Contractor
Our Work
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