Amidst Montana’s technological surge, we partnered with Aurora to unify its workplace experience across a vast real estate portfolio and design its new greenfield site in Bozeman. Known for its trailblazing self-driving technology, Aurora needed environments that could fuel its growth.
We delivered state-of-the-art testing and R+D labs designed to accelerate the research, innovation and development behind its capabilities. The new workplace supports both intra-team collaboration and the individual deep work critical for advancing autonomous driving technology. By consolidating these functions into a single dynamic hub, Aurora is now better positioned to scale and bring its product to a broader market.
The project represented a unique challenge: integrating diverse functions within a single building while promoting wellness and cross-departmental connection.
The Bozeman location is primarily used for the research, prototyping, development and production of Aurora’s Lidar technology. Its main objective is to drive research and innovation. Determining the company’s current and future real estate needs informed the site’s planning, architecture and interior design.
Our design fully leveraged the expansive greenfield site to its fullest, creating a seamless flow throughout the building. Research labs, development and production areas, amenities and office space are all carefully integrated. Furthermore, employees and visitors can easily transition between intense research and practical application, embodying the project’s core philosophy of integrated functionality. Our team’s strategic layout connects the production wing and office areas through a visually striking wooden atrium, creating a sense of unity and accessibility.
The project’s centrepiece, a stunning wood-filled atrium brings departments together and strengthens community as a natural gathering place. The workplace hosts multiple users, including employees, candidates and external users such as investors and suppliers.
We introduced a variety of settings. From open lab environments that promote teamwork to quiet zones for deep focus, each supporting different work modes. Additionally, built-in video conferencing capabilities keep Aurora’s global teams connected.
Our team specified sustainable, low-VOC and Red List-free materials to support environmental health and employee wellness.
Our design draws from Montana’s rich architectural heritage while celebrating its natural landscapes through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. At the same time, it reflects Aurora’s forward-looking, futuristic vision.
Light, a core element of Aurora’s identity, is captured throughout the spaces. The flow of materials, people and natural sunlight creates a sense of unity between the brand and the Bozeman environment.
We adapted the design, materials and finishes to meet revised budgets without losing sight of the project’s goals. Close coordination between architecture and construction kept key features like the atrium and labs retained and optimised.
To support Aurora’s ambitious goals and future growth, we designed a space that streamlines operations and connects research and development. Innovation, research and production now come together in one cohesive environment to push boundaries and drive success.
Perhaps the most significant achievement of this project was its role in consolidating Aurora’s presence in Montana. Located on the Montana State University Innovation Campus, it taps into the state’s commitment to technological leadership while connecting Aurora’s facilities across the U.S.
Now a cornerstone of Aurora’s operations, this state-of-the-art facility supports the company’s ongoing pursuit to lead in autonomous vehicle technology.
Completed
2024
Bozeman, Montana
6,968 sq m / 75,000 sq ft
Lara Swimmer
