The workplace of the new millennium is a far cry from the indoor-only, parking-centric “concrete jungle” of the past. After its 2014 separation from eBay, PayPal engaged SWA in a three-part, campus-wide improvement project that exemplifies corporate campus trends by shifting the focus to outdoor amenities, flexibility, and life/work balance for its more than 4,000 employees. Previously sparse outdoor seating and ornamental planting has been expanded and upgraded: a new amphitheater accommodates up to 250, with additional standing room, all with a view of the new stage and outdoor screen for presentations, events, and movie screenings. In addition to an airy new indoor/outdoor cafeteria, a large deck complements a new coffee shop (known as “the oasis”) that converts to a beer garden after hours – a flexible choice for informal meetings and social gatherings, and a much-needed amenity on a campus where conference space is in high demand.
The campus’ new bocce court, together with pool and ping pong tables, is constantly in use. Shade structures in the amphitheater, together with umbrellas and mature Chinese Elm trees added to complement existing California Redwoods, offer respite from the California sun; plantings have been updated with water conservation in mind, placing greater emphasis on native species. The landscape now reflects the 24/7, lifestyle-inclusive environment of the PayPal ethos as well as the Northern California region, enlivening the campus and alleviating indoor congestion.
Lite-On Headquarters
This major Taiwanese electronics company chose Taipei’s “Electronics Center” overlooking the Gee Long River for their new headquarters. The overall concept is of a 25-story slender tower rising above a sloped landscape podium that covers much of the site. Below-grade parking slopes toward the river on one side, with the urban center on the ot...
Electronic Arts
The plan for the Electronic Arts corporate campus included nine office buildings, a commons building (including a cafeteria, health center, and fitness center), a theater, a parking structure, and a childcare center. The computer game software company’s offices support a grand lawn quad. The quad not only provides a campus focus but also serves as a stor...
North Texas Corporate Campus
Facing arduous competition to attract and retain top employee talent, companies are distinguishing themselves through the design of their workplaces. SWA worked with the client to reimagine and reinvigorate an outdated campus into a stimulating and rewarding work environment with quality amenities. To undertake the challenge of this campus transformation, the ...
Shanghai Tower
China’s tallest building, Shanghai Tower, is located in the Lujiazui Financial Center Zone near the Shanghai World Financial Center and Jin-Mao tower. SWA’s landscape design establishes a “Tower Park” to complement the building’s iconic form and function, connect the mixed-use project with its urban neighborhood, and provide a variety of beautiful settin...