Zoom’s latest headquarters (HQ) in Santa Barbara, Calif., revitalizes a dated 1970s building into a dynamic office space.
The split-level structure had undergone disjointed renovations before Zoom’s acquisition, resulting in a maze-like layout that deviated from the original open-plan design.
To achieve an effective and intuitive flow within the 604 m2 (6,500 sf), spread across four levels, Anacapa Architecture, took the first step of stripping away the previous renovations. The ground-level entry was revamped to showcase product showrooms, emphasizing the demonstration and sale of communication technology. The central glass-topped atrium, a two-story space, was preserved to enhance interior circulation and introduce daylight into the building.
A versatile staircase now serves as a pivotal space for meetings, presentations, alternative workspaces, and circulation between floors. A communal kitchen and snack area were incorporated into the atrium, surrounded by an open-plan office space for the sales staff. Additional spaces include conference rooms, break rooms, and a nursing room.
The basement was exclusively designed for staff, featuring open-plan offices, small teleconferencing spaces, a show kitchen with a dual display system for team gatherings, and a patio area for dining, games, and relaxation.
Both the interior and exterior showcase exposed masonry, with a new exterior elevator tower added for enhanced vertical circulation. The exterior received updates, including new railings, paint, landscaping, parking improvements, and the addition of bike storage. A greenscreen grow wall was also introduced to bring natural elements to the exterior, complementing the overall transformation of the building.
An inspiring example of adaptive reuse is Zoom’s California HQ, which was transformed into a functional, modern workplace through the adaptive reuse of its maze-like structure.