Google Nairobi Office & Development Centre
A Flagship Workspace Celebrating Kenya’s Culture, Creativity & Innovation
Overview
A bold milestone for global tech in Africa.
Design Partnership was commissioned as Lead Architect to translate Google’s global workplace standards into a uniquely Kenyan expression—an office that feels rooted in place while supporting world-class innovation.
The result is a highly contextual, sustainably built workspace that celebrates Kenya’s artistic heritage, its ecosystems, and the creative energy of Nairobi’s growing tech community.
Design Story
A workspace shaped by culture, craft, and nature
From the moment you arrive, the design narrative unfolds through commissioned Kenyan art, materials inspired by local landscapes, and a layered spatial experience anchored in authenticity.
Look up in the reception and you’ll see hand-woven wheels by celebrated artist Evans Ngure, suspended in Google’s iconic palette—a playful nod to movement, creativity, and Kenyan craftsmanship.
Turn the corner and the story deepens: a sculptural metallic map of Africa crafted from recycled e-waste glows softly, highlighting Google’s presence in Accra, Johannesburg, Lagos and Nairobi. The piece connects Google’s continental footprint with its commitment to sustainability and circular design.
Across the office, textures draw from Kenya’s diverse terrains—rift-valley stone, coastal lightness, savannah warmth, and forest greens—brought together through refined contemporary detailing.
Sustainability & Performance
Built to the highest global environmental standards
LEED Platinum certification>, underscoring Google’s commitment to responsible development in Africa.
Key sustainability features include:
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High-efficiency lighting and building systems
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Adaptive HVAC with reduced energy demand
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Water-wise fixtures throughout the workspace
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Material strategies prioritizing recycled, low-VOC, and locally sourced products
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Acoustic, thermal, and daylighting performance aligned with Google’s global benchmarks
This is not just an office—it’s a model for future-forward African workplaces.
Workplace Experience
Human-centred environments for collaboration and innovation
The interior planning balances high-focus engineering spaces with collaborative hubs, informal lounges, and culture-driven breakout areas.
Every zone is infused with colour, art, and local materials, shaping a warm, inclusive workplace where teams feel connected—to each other and to the city around them.
