Amazon.com Inc. today released architectural renderings of its upcoming HQ2 campus in Arlington, Virginia, which will feature three 22-story office buildings flanking an even taller, nature-inspired facility the company refers to as The Helix.

The Helix (pictured, center) is a 350-foot structure that will offer “alternative work environments for Amazon employees” based out of the campus, the company said. Its hallmark feature is a pair of twisting outdoor walking paths designed to resemble the shape of a double helix. 

“A true double helix in shape and structure, this unique building will feature two walkable paths of landscaped terrain that will spiral up the outside of the building, featuring plantings you may find on a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia,” John Schoettler, Amazon’s vice president of global real estate and facilities, wrote in a blog post.

The three office buildings adjacent to The Helix were also designed with nature in mind. Amazon said that the structures will meet the LEED Platinum standard, the highest certification for a sustainable development issued by the U.S. Green Building Council, thanks partially to an all-electric central heating and cooling system set to run entirely on renewable energy. The four buildings will be located on a shared 2.5-acre green space that Amazon intends to open to the public.

“We plan to make a significant investment to move all vehicle access underground to foster a safe and welcoming pedestrian environment for everyone,” Schoettler elaborated. “Visitors and neighbors won’t see service vehicles crossing the new site as all deliveries and docking activity will happen underground, freeing up even more space for the community.”

The development is expected to play a significant role in Amazon’s workforce expansion plans. When construction is complete, the building cluster will reportedly have capacity for more than 13,000 employees. Another pair of office buildings currently being constructed down the street will accommodate an additional 12,500 Amazon staff.

The new facilities in Arlington will together function as Amazon’s second global headquarters under the name HQ2. As part of the project, the company plans invest more than $2.5 billion in the city over the next decade. 

The first of the new buildings that Amazon previewed today are on track to be completed by 2025. When the campus opens for business, it will also feature retail pavilions, restaurants, a childcare center, a dog run and a food truck area with outdoor seating.

Image: Amazon