Walmart’s newest headquarters, designed with ecological sustainability in mind, has recently reached completion. Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, the sprawling 142-ha (350-acre) home office campus features more than 30 structures, including 12 office buildings, shops, several parking garages, a childcare facility, a hotel, and a fitness center.
Gensler served as the Executive Architect for the overall campus design and Design Architect for the project’s office structures. SWA Group was tasked with the landscape architecture, seamlessly integrating the Northeast Arkansas ecology. In addition, Duda|Paine Architects designed the on-site Walton Family Whole Health & Fitness center.
All the structures were kept to four or five stories, and primary exterior materials included metal panels, glass, and brick. The interiors of the buildings feature metal, wood, and tile.
Sustainable design strategies were incorporated throughout the project, including energy-efficient lighting systems, natural ventilation systems, and biophilic design. Locally sourced mass timber was also used to construct the buildings’ structures as part of an overall commitment to sustainability.
The 64-km (40-mile) Razorback Regional Greenway meanders through the campus, incorporating pedestrian and cycling trails. The numerous facilities are grouped closely and connected by walking paths and pedestrian bridges. A large amphitheater is located at the “heart” of the campus.
On either end of the campus, two large water bodies capture stormwater for irrigation. The south lake is in a large greenspace, while the north lake sits in front of the fitness center.
Opening in phases throughout 2025, the Walmart campus will soon serve over 15,000 employees.
