The NBCUniversal Campus Project transforms the Universal Studios Lot into a vibrant campus to retain and attract top talent and provide an innovative environment that supports the evolving ways employees work together.
LEVER and Field Operations collaborated on this planning and design project, redefining the modern studio lot by drawing inspiration from Southern California's architecture and landscape to restore a unique cultural ambiance. Their innovative design blurs the lines between the indoors and outdoors by introducing gardens and green spaces, enhancing outdoor connectivity and community engagement.
Central to the project are a new creative office building, “One Universal,” and the employee center, “The Commons,” bringing functionality, creativity and cross sections of the businesses and our creative partners together. A new “Paseo” and campus landscape connects new and legacy elements of the site, offering digitally-connected garden workspaces, outdoor dining and flexible gathering areas. Fully blending indoor and outdoor spaces, this campus redesign seeks to foster creativity and innovation by encouraging people to leave their workspaces and studios, inviting chance interactions and bringing creativity into inspiring communal spaces.
One Universal embraces its sloped setting and expansive views. The 350,000 square foot office building is tucked into the hillside and includes a 500,000 square foot attached parking structure for over 1,200 vehicles. The 11-story tiered building features sweeping views of the San Gabriel Mountains, a wrap-around outdoor deck with meeting and gathering spaces, screening rooms and other shared amenities.
Inspired by over a century of filmmaking on the Universal Lot, The Commons was designed to reflect the history of cinema starting from early animation using round, spinning zoetrope to capture live action on film reels. The 84,000 square foot building is infused with natural light and is a gathering place to enjoy a meal, meet with colleagues and guests, and host special events.