Google Opens First Sustainable Office Built With Mass Timber

Google unveiled its latest office building in Sunnyvale, California, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovative workplace design. This is the company’s first office constructed using mass timber, a sustainable building material made by layering and laminating smaller pieces of wood into larger structural components.

The use of mass timber significantly reduces the building’s embodied carbon emissions, projected to be 96% lower than a comparable steel and concrete structure, when factoring in carbon sequestration over time. To ensure environmental responsibility, Google sourced 100% of the timber from Forest Stewardship Council-certified forests. The building is also fully electric, powered in part by rooftop solar panels, and has earned a LEED Platinum certification. These features align with Google’s broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions and operating on carbon-free energy 24/7 by 2030.

The construction integrates biophilic design elements, such as exposed timber, skylights, and floor-to-ceiling windows, to create a workspace that promotes collaboration, focus, and employee wellbeing. Research suggests that nature-inspired design can improve productivity and concentration. Additional features include automatic wooden blinds to minimize glare and an underfloor air system for optimal comfort.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the use of mass timber in construction accelerated the building process, reduced noise pollution, and minimized construction waste. The site also includes three acres of pollinator-friendly native plants and a public art installation inspired by Atari, which previously occupied the location.