The centerpiece of the new Arlington, Virginia, development
to be called "PenPlace" will be a double-helix building surrounded by
landscaped gardens with plants native to the region.
The design unveiled is the latest part of Amazon's $2.5
billion "HQ2" which will become a second headquarters for the
technology and e-commerce giant based in Seattle, Washington.
"The Helix at our Arlington headquarters will offer a
variety of alternative work environments for Amazon employees amidst lush
gardens and flourishing trees native to the region," the company's global
real estate and facilities vice president John Schoettler said in a statement.
"A true double helix in shape and structure, this
unique building will feature two walkable paths of landscaped terrain that will
spiral up the outside of the building, featuring plantings you may find on a
hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia."
Amazon said it would include an artist-in-residence
programme to be hosted within the Helix that would allow local artists to
showcase their work.
Amazon chose the site in 2017 after an extensive search that
drew criticism for sparking a bidding war of tax incentives from municipalities
across the country. An additional site in New York was also selected but later
abandoned amid a political feud over the plan.
HQ2, the first phase of which is already under construction,
is expected to bring some 25,000 jobs to the region over the next decade.
The second phase designed by architecture firm NBBJ aimed to
"infuse nature into the urban landscape and create a unique, sustainable
environment where our employees can work and invent for our customers,"
Schoettler said.
"Our designs create open and active spaces that aim to
bring people closer to nature in an effort to further nurture innovation and
creativity."
The plan calls for 2,60,000 square metres of new office
space across three 22-story buildings.
"The design promotes well-being and physical
exercise," Schoettler said.
"We hope that the blend of architectural and ecological
elements at PenPlace.. will inspire those who work here and serve as an
inviting place for neighbors to gather, relax, dine, and shop."
He added that the design aims to inspire people in a way
similar to the Spheres at Amazon's Seattle headquarters.
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