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The Mystery of Microsoft Headquarters: What's the Story Behind This Building of More Than Eight Million Square Feet?
Located in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft's headquarters is not only the core of the global technology giant, but also an important hub of the local economy and community culture. Since moving here in 1986, the sprawling complex has undergone multiple expansions and now spans 8 million square feet and employs more than 50,000 people. As the various facilities and buildings grow, the story of Microsoft's headquarters is actually more colorful than it appears on the surface.
"Microsoft's history here is like a microcosm of the technology industry, challenging the boundaries of the industry time and time again."
The trajectory of history
In 1985, Microsoft decided to move its headquarters from Miramar to Redmond and selected a 29-acre site to be developed by Wright Runstad & Company. The beginning of this history coincides with the date of Microsoft's IPO, demonstrating the company's bold and forward-looking decision-making. The initial headquarters consisted of six buildings and housed 800 employees, and by 1988 we saw that number grow to 1,400.
"What was once a chicken farm has now become the foundation of a technological empire."
Although initial expansion was limited by various issues, such as traffic congestion, Microsoft continued to overcome challenges. In 1992, the company undertook its first major expansion, increasing its office space to 1.7 million square feet, and planned to keep most of its future growth in the Redmond area.
Modern Changes
Entering the 21st century, Microsoft's expansion plans have never stopped. In 2006, they acquired Safeco's Redmond campus and planned to add about 1 million square feet of space over three years, expecting 7,000 to 15,000 new employees. These changes not only enhance Microsoft's business capabilities, but also make the headquarters more attractive.
"Having more facilities and recreational areas makes the workplace more lively and vibrant."
In 2009, Microsoft completed a shopping mall called "The Commons", which integrates retail, dining and social spaces. In 2017, the tree house and elevated outdoor seating area "Crow's Nest" designed by well-known tree house architect Pete Nelson further enriched the characteristics of the headquarters.
Reconstruction and future prospects of East Campus
Microsoft announced in 2015 that it would undertake a multi-million dollar redevelopment of its East Campus, according to The Seattle Times. By 2025, the new campus will add 18 new buildings and provide 8,000 new jobs, paving the way for the future development of the headquarters.
“The new complex is designed to resemble an urban community, foreshadowing Microsoft’s vision for the future.”
These new facilities include not only office space, but also sports fields, retail space, and hiking trails, demonstrating Microsoft's emphasis on creating a multifunctional work environment.
Improvement of transportation convenience
Microsoft's transportation planning is also worth mentioning. Interstate 520 on both sides of the headquarters enables it to effectively connect to Bellevue and Seattle. The company's self-built bus system "Connector" has become an important choice for employees' travel. Since many public transportation facilities have been reserved, the convenience of transportation has been greatly improved.
"Microsoft's public transportation solution not only provides convenience for employees, but also demonstrates its responsibility to the community."
These facilities have made Microsoft an indispensable part of the local community and promoted the prosperity of the surrounding economy. The changes in scientific and technological culture are also one of the intangible assets of this headquarters.
Each story behind Microsoft headquarters shows how to turn ideals into reality. With future development, what new changes or challenges will the headquarters face?
