Microsoft Campus Modernization Accessibility and Inclusivity

With over 50,000 employees on 500 acres, Microsoft’s headquarters is virtually a small city. Its multiyear Campus Modernization Project involved about 9.2 million square feet, replacing 12 older office buildings with 17 new buildings—with a focus on accessibility, inclusivity and universal design. The campus is pedestrian and bicycle friendly, with retail shops, restaurants, running and walking trails, sports facilities and open spaces.

The key to success was bringing the construction manager together with MIG’s expertise in in accessibility and universal design to develop and refine a design-assist approach, collaborating with each contractor from the outset to devise solutions proactively.

In a highly interactive process, MIG and contractors discuss design parameters and rationale, troubleshoot problems as they are encountered and determine the best methods and materials to actually exceed the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements—enabling employees and visitors with a wide range of ages and abilities to safely navigate the campus with ease and confidence.

As an ongoing member of Microsoft’s Accessibility and Inclusivity team, MIG helps review and evaluate designs for the entire campus, meets monthly with Microsoft’s design standards team to refine standards in response to issues that arise during implementation, and consults directly with design teams to brainstorm solutions.

It’s a transferable solution for cities of any size—a focus on inclusion and innovation, from concept to construction.