In 2024, Mercer Mass Timber and Google unveiled 1265 Borregas, Google’s first all-mass timber office building. Located in Sunnyvale, California, this five-story, two-million-square-foot structure showcases the transformative potential of mass timber in sustainable construction. Built with cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam beams from Mercer’s Okanagan mill, 1265 Borregas demonstrates the advantages of timber:
- Embodied Carbon Reduction: Google reports its new office building generates 96%1 fewer embodied carbon emissions than a comparable steel and concrete structure, when you factor in sequestration over time.
- Biophilic Design: Natural wood has been reported to promote well-being and productivity.
- Innovative Engineering: A hybrid timber-steel system ensures seismic resilience and aesthetic appeal.
The building’s third-party certified wood, solar-powered energy systems, and LEED Platinum certification, align with Google’s goal of 24/7 carbon-free operations by 2030. With pre-engineered connections and factory-cut systems, the project streamlined construction, minimizing overall waste and costs. Combining sustainability, innovation, and human-centered design, this landmark project sets a new standard for what mass timber can achieve.
1 As calculated by Google: https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/mass-timber-building/
Senior Vice President, Mercer Mass Timber
