The Symantec Corporation campus in Culver City, CA, is a ground-up, Type I concrete commercial office project designed by HOK. This GMP/GMAX project encompasses 1,176,000 square feet across three structures, each rising four levels above grade. A standalone parking facility spans 619,000 square feet, accommodating 1,963 stalls.

Positioned on a steep hillside previously considered undevelopable, the campus is now a landmark of sustainable design, with panoramic views stretching from LAX to Malibu. The project site posed several engineering challenges, including high-traffic density and a city sewer line running through its core, which the team addressed by designing two primary structures that straddle the sewer line, integrating a garden above it.

Symantec’s campus was built with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, leading to its LEED Gold certification and multiple industry recognitions, including:

• CoreNet Global Sustainability Leadership Award (Commended), 2008
• Los Angeles Business Council Sustainability Award for a Commercial Project, 2008
• International Interior Design Association (IIDA) Calibre Environmental Recognition Award, 2008

Sustainable Design & Performance

Site & Transportation

• Designed on a challenging hillside, transforming a previously undevelopable site into a functional, accessible campus.
• Located within ¼ mile of multiple public transit lines, supporting alternative transportation options.
• Features solar-paneled sculpture columns at the main drive, reinforcing the company’s commitment to renewable energy.
• Utilizes high-albedo roofing and paving materials to reduce the heat island effect.

Water Conservation

• 63% reduction in potable water use for landscaping through drought-tolerant, native plantings and high-efficiency irrigation.
• 40% reduction in interior water consumption with dual-flush toilets, low-flush urinals, and low-flow fixtures.

Energy Efficiency

• Optimized building orientation and high-performance low-E glazing reduce solar heat gain.
• Energy savings of nearly 29% compared to California Title 24 energy standards.
• Features underfloor air distribution, high-efficiency HVAC, water-side economizer, and variable-speed controls on fans, pumps, chillers, and cooling tower fans.

Materials & Waste Management

• 82% of construction waste diverted from landfills through a rigorous waste management plan.
• 22% of building materials contain recycled content, with 67% of locally sourced materials meeting sustainability criteria.

Indoor Environmental Quality

• Implemented MERV 13 filtration during construction and pre-occupancy building flush-out to enhance indoor air quality.
• Use of low-VOC adhesives, sealants, paints, carpeting, and composite wood products to reduce airborne pollutants.
• 90% of office spaces have daylight access and exterior views, contributing to occupant well-being and energy savings.
• 50% of spaces include individual occupant controls for lighting and temperature customization.

Building for the Future

By combining cutting-edge engineering solutions with high-performance sustainable strategies, Symantec’s Culver City headquarters serves as an example of responsible, forward-thinking commercial development.

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