This two-tower composition, an extension of an adjacent California studio lot, is designed as a workplace to foster a similar creative expression. Early concepts devoted little space to landscape due to an underground parking garage that supports the 800,000 SF workplace. The design solution locates the landscape on structure, utilizing foam and imported soil to reduce weight while allowing for dynamic landforms that align with the design’s movement and aesthetic goals.
Second Century is situated within an 11-acre site in Burbank, California, this legacy Hollywood studio center introduces a striking new presence on the skyline between the iconic Hollywood Hills and San Gabriel Mountains. Lush landscape on the ground plane and in building terraces create a three-dimensional composition that mediates the area between the hillside and the roadway.
The landscape character of the San Gabriel Mountains is seamlessly infused throughout the site, offering views of rolling terrain and lushly planted terraces that climb the facades, creating an immersive experience. Topographical softscape elements and a regionally appropriate planting palette, inspired by the native landscape, help mitigate the 20-foot grade change across the site and allow for vegetated low points to capture stormwater runoff. Courtyards and roof terraces surround the offices, integrating the indoor work environment with a lush outdoor realm. Social spaces, outdoor workspaces, flexible event areas, and a garden walk are woven throughout the landscape, inviting interaction and fostering a strong sense of community and social health. Custom furnishings, including wood benches, help delineate active gathering zones.
Universally accessible walking paths with varied light conditions connect to a larger campus system, encouraging physical activity and comfortable sun exposure throughout the year. The site is easily accessible by vehicle and bicycle, and pedestrian paths create a pleasant circulation between the office buildings, outdoor amenities and the studio lots. Ample shade, provided by mature-sized trees, reduces localized temperatures and encourages walking, even in hotter months. Shade can reduce localized temperatures by 15-20 degrees.
Seasonality and color are emphasized in the ornamental plantings, which offer a variety of textures and rich colors year-round. The design fosters biodiversity, with a significant portion of the plant palette selected for its habitat value. Trees and vegetation provide essential shelter and food sources for local wildlife, enhancing the site’s ecological richness. This biodiversity-focused approach supports the broader ecosystem while creating a landscape that is both functional and aesthetically vibrant.
The project incorporates natural materials like wood and decomposed granite for an organic feel, while concrete paving and pavers are selected with colors and finishes that complement the surrounding palette.
Warner Bros. Second Century Studio Campus
Location: Burbank, California, US
Landscape Architect: OJB Landscape Architecture
Architect: Gehry Partners LLP
Structural Engineer: Englekirk
Civil Engineer: Psomas
MEP/FP Engineer: Arc Engineering
Lighting Designers: KGM Architectural Lighting
LEED & Sustainability: ZC Sustainability
Irrigation Design: Sweeney & Associates, Inc.
Elevator Consultant: HKA Vertical Transportation Consulting
Façade Access Consultant: Lerch Bates Inc.
Fire/Life Safety Consultant: Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Acoustic Consultant: Newson Brown Acoustics LLC
Hardware Consultant: Finish Hardware Technology
Photography: Millicent Harvey, Timothy Hursley, Cliff William.
Shortlisted in the 2025 WLA Awards – Built Commercial Landscape Design