San Jose Municipal Water System Headquarters

Studio G Architects designed a new headquarters for the San Jose Municipal Water System, now the fourth-largest water retailer in Santa Clara County. The growing organization consolidated operations previously spread across five outdated and portable buildings into a single, modern facility that brings all staff together under one roof. The expanded campus includes a new two-story office building and an adjacent storage facility, thoughtfully integrated onto the existing site near the Coyote Creek Golf Course and within a residential neighborhood.

The design embraces a contemporary rural aesthetic, reinterpreting the traditional barn form with warmth and modern clarity. Exterior paving patterns inspired by the movement of water guide visitors to a light-filled two-story entry marked by cascading pendant fixtures. Inside, a balanced mix of open and private offices, conference rooms, and micro-kitchens supports daily operations. A first-floor community training room encourages public engagement, while outdoor patios extend collaboration and gathering spaces. Lofted ceilings and expansive north-facing windows on the second floor frame views of the surrounding landscape. The project achieved LEED Gold certification, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and civic stewardship.