FACILITIES

“One of the things that excites me the most is that visitors and new employees don’t need to read a 50 page book about who we are and what we stand for, they feel it and see it in their first five minutes of standing here.”


- Todd Spaletto, The North Face President


Since 2009 when our first solar installation came on line at our California distribution center, we have been seeking every opportunity to pursue innovative and renewable technologies to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. As we build new facilities, we follow sustainable building practices to decrease our energy and water use, reduce building waste, incorporate sustainable materials, and add renewable energy sources where feasible. Our new California headquarters demonstrates this commitment while showcasing several creative building solutions. Built in 2013, the stunning new campus on the San Francisco Bay, near ferry service and other public transportation as well as the Bay Trail footpath, is a fitting center for a company staffed by people who are passionate about enjoying the outdoors.

HEADQUARTERS FEATURES

RENEWABLE ENERGY

  • Five vertical wind turbines and over 4,000 solar panels on roofs, carports and awnings
  • Over 100% of our electricity generated from renewable energy

EFFICIENT DESIGN

  • Daylighting
  • Efficient air conditioning system that eliminates all refrigerant-based coolants and chemicals - all potent greenhouse gases

INNOVATIVE BUILDING MATERIALS

  • Individually replaceable carpet tiles with 20-30% recycled content
  • Reclaimed wood that diverted eight tons of wood from landfilling
  • Cement panels that contain 50% fly ash, a waste product
  • Wall insulation made from 5,500 pairs of recycled jeans

LOCAL FOOD

  • Café sources organic, local food whenever possible
  • On-site garden provides "hyper-local" food

WATER CONSERVATION

  • Landscaping with native vegetation
  • Efficient irrigation systems reduce outdoor water use by 75%