First ‘The Spheres,’ now ‘The Helix’? Amazon proposes spiral design for HQ2

ARLINGTON, Virginia — Amazon has already made a unique architectural mark on Seattle with the creation of The Spheres, where employees can work while surrounded by exotic plants.

A similar concept is on the table for the company’s second headquarters in Arlington, Va.

This one is called The Helix. As if the amazing spiral design of the building, which will be a true double helix, isn’t enough, it will feature two walkable, landscaped paths that will spiral up the outside of the building.

Like The Spheres, it will provide alternative work environments amid lush gardens and trees. In this case, the vegetation will be native to the region.

Once built, Amazon will offer public tours of The Helix several weekends a month.

Construction for the second headquarters started a year ago at another site near where The Helix will be built and continues, though many employees currently work from home.

The Helix is part of that second phase of construction. More than 2.5 acres surrounding it will be open for public use and will include an amphitheater for outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and movies in the park.

There will also be retail shops and restaurants across the site, and plans include room for a daycare center, a dog run, and a food truck area with outdoor seating.

Amazon is also planning a 20,000-square-foot community space that can be used for everything from large community meetings to small classes.

Read more about the proposed design here.

Cox Media Group