Amazon.com The Spheres

Amidst the urban hustle of Seattle, rise the Amazon.com The Spheres. They are a testament to innovative architecture and a celebration of nature’s tranquility. The Amazon.com The Spheres stand as a unique landmark in Seattle’s Denny Triangle. These striking glass domes house a botanical wonder. They offer a vibrant escape for Amazon employees and a glimpse into a biophilic paradise for the public. The Amazon.com The Spheres officially opened on January 30, 2018. They were designed by NBBJ and Site Workshop. The three intersecting spheres, reaching heights of 80 to 95 feet, are clad in over 2,600 glass panes and supported by 620 tons of steel, formed into pentagonal hexecontahedron panels. Inside, over 40,000 plants from 50 countries thrive. The largest sphere houses a four-story living wall with 25,000 plants. Including some carnivorous species! The Amazon.com The Spheres also offer meeting spaces and seating for 800 people. The climate inside is carefully regulated at 72°F and 60% humidity during the day. This ensures the well-being of the diverse plant collection. The collection includes a 55-foot Ficus rubiginosa, affectionately nicknamed “Rubi,” and even a corpse flower named “Morticia” that bloomed in 2018. The Amazon.com The Spheres are more than just a beautiful structure. They represent Amazon’s commitment to biophilic design. Integrating nature into the workplace has been shown to reduce stress, regulate circadian rhythms, and boost productivity. The Amazon.com The Spheres also incorporate sustainable features, like recycled energy for heating. This system uses heat from a nearby data center. The construction also used ECOPlanet concrete, a sustainable alternative that significantly reduces carbon emissions. While primarily for Amazon employees, the Amazon.com The Spheres offer public tours. They are available on select Saturdays, providing a unique opportunity to experience this urban oasis. The Amazon.com The Spheres have quickly become a beloved Seattle landmark, drawing comparisons to the iconic Space Needle. They stand as a symbol of innovation and a testament to the power of nature in the urban landscape.