Tech Giants Find Expression in Architecture

Technology giants are molding the way billions of people live and think, but their reach isn’t limited to cyberspace. They’re increasingly looking for real-world opportunities to project their brands and shape the environment, and one of the biggest opportunities lies in the the physical design of their massive headquarters.

A host of huge office-construction projects are now underway at companies including Apple, Facebook, Amazon, Samsung and Tencent. It’s one of the most expensive single decisions a company can make—and as is often the case in the tech world, the bolder the vision the bigger the risks.

Jonathan Ward, a design partner at the prominent architectural firm NBBJ, plays a pivotal role in facilitating tech company self-expression around the globe. Recently, Mr. Ward has been working with both Chinese and American tech giants to design buildings that will enliven the cities around them and help motivate employees to innovate and collaborate.

Mr. Ward spoke with The Information about the thinking behind the new Tencent building, the merits of campuses versus skyscrapers and the philosophical underpinnings of good architecture. An edited transcript of the conversation is below.