Google: A Fun and Functional Workplace in Mexico City

Creating a Frugal Space for Gen-Xers

When entering the reception area, visitors are greeted by a bright white space with a colorful Google logo, which leads to two distinct areas. The first is the "techtalk," a large auditorium designed for multiple uses. The focal point of this space is the Mexico City Google map carpet, capturing the attention of anyone who steps inside.

The second area transports visitors into the heart of Mexico City. They first encounter Chapultepec, an informal meeting space featuring swings, a lake, and a towering tree. As they explore further, they realize that the carpet is actually a street that guides them throughout the office. They can hop into a refurbished cab for a phone conversation or take the subway, which houses the technical rooms of the office.

Continuing the journey, visitors can head south to find workstations and Xochimilco, where they can have video conferences inside a traditional Mexican boat called a Trajinera. Alternatively, they can go north and enter Teatro Blanquita, a spacious meeting area where Google Hangouts take place.

Food and catering are of utmost importance to Google, ensuring their employees are well taken care of. In the middle of the office space, there is a deli where employees can eat or meet. Additionally, the office provides several amenities such as a gym, showers, and massage areas to keep employees happy and productive.

The color and lighting design work in harmony to enhance the overall look, productivity, and atmosphere of the space. Moreover, the office follows strict green guidelines, utilizing low VOC materials, green carpeting, certified wood, and recycling bins. As a result, the office has achieved LEED Gold Certification, showcasing Google's commitment to sustainability.

Google operates differently from most companies, and with a predominantly Gen-X workforce, the design team aimed to create a fun yet functional ambiance. This "frugal space" reflects the company's unique culture and values.

The realization of this design involved the use of interface and EGE carpet, certified wood, resin liquid elements, artificial grass, USG ceiling and walls. Additionally, a Volkswagen vehicle was rescued from a car dump and repurposed within the office space.

The Google office in Mexico City spans 600 square meters and was completed within a timeframe of 3 months for design and 3 months for construction. The project was a result of extensive research and strategic alignment between the space and Google's objectives.

This innovative design by Juan Carlos Baumgartner and his team at SPACE has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious A' Design Award in 2014. The office was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the category of Sustainable Products, Projects, and Green Design. This recognition highlights the exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and innovation demonstrated in the design, which evokes positive emotions and amazement.

Image Credits: Eric Velazquez Torres