Amazon Block 21
Amazon Block 21
Two Towers, One Workplace Language
A WORKPLACE AT SCALE
Over 600,000 Square Feet, One Strategy
BA's workplace strategy specialists worked closely with the client to refine and implement their current workplace and design strategy across two Seattle-area towers. The project's guiding principles were connectivity and immersion — cultivating a shared sense of space and energy for staff and visitors moving across floors and between buildings, while still carving out room for teams and individuals to work in quiet privacy. All tenant improvement decisions were made in alignment with the client's sustainability goals.
A GRADIENT OF ENERGY
From Active Core to Focused Perimeter
The workplace strategy layers communal and private spaces along a carefully calibrated gradient — active social environments cluster near the center of each floor, transitioning to more team-focused collaborative zones toward the perimeter. Program elements were intentionally held away from the curtain wall, preserving visual connectivity and whole-floor circulation while maximizing every workstation's access to daylight and views.
A PROGRESSION THROUGH THE BUILDING
Active spaces at lower levels establish energy that carries into elevator lobbies and shared circulation zones. Arriving on workspace floors, occupants first encounter dynamic gathering environments at the core, with the character of the space growing calmer in texture and materiality as they move into team-focused areas. Wood-clad transition walls signal movement between these zones, while phone booths serve as recognizable markers indicating entry into more private work environments.
LIGHT AS WAYFINDING
Lighting That Signals Movement
Dynamic lighting reinforces circulation and movement throughout the workplace, while more even, flexible lighting supports spaces built for longer stretches of focused work. Elevator lobbies draw design cues from the building lobby below, establishing continuity and a shared identity across floors and between towers.
TWO TOWERS, ONE LANGUAGE
A Shared Language, Two Distinct Scales
The two towers share a common workplace language while responding to their own distinct scales and conditions. The smaller tower takes on a more intimate, residentially inspired character — a "resi-mercial" atmosphere that complements the larger workplace environment. Social spaces built around kitchen and gathering areas strengthen the visual and physical connection between the two towers.
CRAFTED AT EVERY DETAIL
Standard Elements, Uncommon Craft
Throughout the project, standard workplace elements were detailed in unexpected ways. CNC-crafted wood transition walls, interactive environmental graphics, exposed structural systems, and carefully integrated building infrastructure contribute to a workplace that celebrates authenticity and craft, while open-to-structure ceilings enhance verticality and daylight penetration.
A DESTINATION WITHIN THE WORKPLACE
One Space, Many Functions
A highly flexible event space, connected directly to a reception area, can function as a private venue or expand into adjacent gathering spaces through large operable partitions. Despite occupying only a portion of a floor, extensive coordination with audiovisual, theatrical lighting, and production consultants gives the space the range to support events, receptions, alternative work settings, and collaborative gathering.
