Google’s 1265 Borregas mass timber office in Sunnyvale, California, represents a milestone in sustainable building design. Developed as Google’s first ground-up mass timber office building, the project was guided by a vision for healthier, low-carbon workplaces that prioritize both environmental impact and employee well-being. The building combines mass timber’s aesthetic warmth with Google’s sustainable construction methods. The design team, including Michael Green Architecture and SERA Architects, focused on creating open, natural spaces using responsibly sourced timber materials. XL Construction led the project, bringing Google’s vision to life in collaboration with partners including Mercer Mass Timber, Equilibrium Consulting, Elevated Construction Services, and Schuff Steel.
One notable feature throughout the project was the thoughtful integration of connection systems—essential for assembling mass timber elements efficiently and cleanly. The project emphasized prefabricated components, including pre-installed connection points, to streamline installation and reduce construction time. This approach helped ensure a balance between structural performance and clean architectural lines, allowing exposed timber to remain a central design feature. The team conducted a full-scale mock-up early in the process to validate assembly methods and confirm that connection systems would meet project expectations. This allowed construction crews to fine-tune their approach, contributing to an efficient and organized installation process. Careful planning of assembly sequences and pre-installed hardware helped the team minimize waste and support circular construction principles.
Beyond reducing operational carbon through energy efficiency, 1265 Borregas highlights mass timber’s role in lowering embodied carbon. The project has been recognized for its sustainable leadership, serving as an example of innovative workplace design. For teams working in mass timber construction, 1265 Borregas demonstrates how early coordination around connection systems and prefabricated elements can contribute to both project success and long-term sustainability outcomes.
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