Gates Foundation HQ Campus
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Seattle, WA
- First Major Phased Development permit in Seattle
- Largest non-profit building to achieve LEED Platinum certification, at the time
- 12-acre campus, transforming a brown field into green space through native landscaping and two acres of living roofs
- Uses 30+% less energy that similar buildings
600K SF
2011
LEED Platinum
Challenge
The Foundation’s staff was dispersed across five separate leased buildings, limiting the opportunities for collaboration and efficiency. At the same time, delivering a new centralized campus introduced significant complexity, including a large, multi-phase development timeline, and the need to coordinate across numerous stakeholders, including the Foundation, design and construction teams, and the City of Seattle. We also had to navigate site selection risks, permitting requirements, a joint venture parking garage, and simultaneous construction efforts—all while maintaining schedule, budget, and uninterrupted operations.
Solution
We brought structure and clarity to a highly complex effort by centralizing leadership, decision-making, and execution on behalf of the Foundation. Our team implemented a long-term permitting strategy, managed key contracts and partnerships, and established a clear roadmap that broke the project into manageable phases. We proactively mitigated risk, streamlined communication between public and private partners, and ensured all aspects of the project progressed in alignment, enabling efficient and seamless delivery.
Outcome & Impact
The completed campus delivers a high-performance, future-focused headquarters that reflects the Foundation’s mission and long-term vision. Designed to last 100 years, the LEED Platinum-certified campus sets a benchmark for sustainability, incorporating features such as a one-million-gallon rainwater harvesting system that significantly reduces water use and supports responsible resource management. Beyond environmental performance, the project transforms the site into a vibrant, community-oriented campus with restored green space and strong connections to the surrounding Seattle Center. The result is a lasting asset that not only enhances how the Foundation works but also contributes positively to the environment and the broader community.
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Project Partners
NBBJ
Architect
Sellen Construction
General Contractor
Our Work
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