Amazon opens its own rainforest in Seattle

CAIRO – 31 January 2018: Amazon.com Inc. opened an office space in Seattle on Monday that looks more like a rainforest. The aim of the space is that it will spark more creativity and new ideas in Amazon.com employees.


Amazon Spheres. Via Reuters/Lindsey Wasson

Amazon has been based in Seattle for over a decade; they have been constantly developing their main campus there, with "The Spheres", as the new complex is called, coming as the latest addition. "The Spheres" consists of three glass domes, containing over 400,000 plants of 400 varying species. Amazon has been known for their intense work culture and this new development is an attempt to change that. Instead of enclosed conference rooms or desks, there are walkways and unconventional meeting spaces with chairs.


Amazon Spheres. Via Reuters/Lindsey Wasson

The opening of "The Spheres" happened by voice command, with founder Jeff Bezos issuing a voice command to Alexa, “Alexa, open The Spheres”. John Schoettler, Amazon’s vice president of global real estate and facilities, said “we wanted to create something really special, something iconic for our campus and for the city of Seattle.”


Amazon Spheres. Via Reuters/Lindsey Wasson

The Spheres, designed by architecture firm NBBJ, will become part of Amazon’s guided campus tours. Members of the public can also visit an exhibit at The Spheres by appointment.