Interior repositioning brings new life, light, biophilic design and community connection to the tech hub’s iconic high-rise office building by Tallie Maule
HGA, a national interdisciplinary design firm, announced its completed renovation of the lobby and plaza at 525 University Avenue – a 15-floor, 194,000-square-foot office building in Palo Alto, Calif, originally designed by prominent California architect Tallie Maule. Owned by CM Capital and standing as one of few high-rise office buildings in the vicinity, 525 University is a newly revitalized local landmark positioned to realize its full potential as a premier trophy asset in the heart of downtown.
HGA was tasked with refreshing the building’s 4,700-square-foot lobby and 45,000-square-foot outdoor plaza while honoring the original 1966 design by Maule. Maule was best known as the chief architect of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit System (BART) from 1966 through 1973 and for his work in residential design in the Pacific Modernism style. To reconnect the building with its urban context, HGA added a long-overdue front door entrance along University Avenue to activate the streetscape for passersby and create a defined reception area. In conjunction with the landscape architect, SWA, the firm also reimagined the outdoor plaza, transforming it into a modern, space for both tenants and the larger business community – all while preserving the site’s architectural character.
“The repositioning aimed to seamlessly reawaken 525 University within its metropolitan setting while remaining true to the original architect’s vision,” said Rob Zirkle, HGA principal and practice group leader. “Our team skillfully navigated a complex approval process to honor Maule’s signature Brutalist style while thoughtfully evolving the space to reflect CM Capital’s vision for a more inviting and transparent environment.”
To bring in more natural light and boost street-level appeal, HGA removed outdated ground-floor office suites and replaced the building’s dark, film-covered windows with clear, energy-efficient glass. The lobby was elevated literally and visually by stripping away archaic overhead systems to reveal the original concrete waffle slab, which was refreshed and painted to complement the existing exposed columns. The building’s central core was wrapped in elegant travertine, while locally sourced redwood was used to craft the reception desk, slatted elevator lobby ceiling and new plaza benches. Anchoring the lobby with lush greenery, a vibrant living wall behind the front desk creates a striking focal centerpiece and biophilic bridge, strengthening the connection between the built environment and the natural world.
The outdoor plaza was redesigned to create a more comfortable and functional open-air courtyard. Original brick paving was replaced with scored concrete, and two new pergolas were added to provide shade and mitigate wind. To address strong downward wind currents that had previously discouraged tenants from enjoying the space, the HGA team developed a trellis structure and modeled solutions in a wind tunnel — ultimately designing a “shock absorber” to slow airflow and redirect it to either side of the plaza. Additional enhancements included a small amphitheater with precast concrete seating, an accessible pathway connecting the upper and lower plazas, and a striking glass jewel box enclosure placed above the stairwell leading to the subterranean parking garage.
By eliminating physical and visual barriers, HGA transformed the building’s experience, creating a space that resonates with tenants and the business community. Visitors can now see through the building, catch glimpses of activity inside and easily enter directly from University Avenue. The ground-floor lobby also features on-site café amenity space currently occupied by Proper Food, a grab-and-go spot for breakfast and lunch.
HGA’s project team was led by Principal-in-Charge, Rob Zirkle, with Senior Project Managers, Krista Olson, Grace Weng and Kevin Deng; Project Coordinator, Rachel Gonsalves; and Design Principal, Casey Crawmer. The team worked closely with landscape architect SWA and general contractor McLarney Construction, Inc. to bring the design to life.
Reinforcing HGA and CM Capital’s commitment to long-term resilience, 525 University integrates sustainable design strategies, implementing low-E glazing for energy efficiency, high-SRI exterior pavers to reduce heat and drought-tolerant native landscaping with a metered irrigation system designed for future gray water use.
Located on Palo Alto’s iconic University Avenue – the downtown’s primary roadway and a hub of civic life – 525 University sits at the heart of one of the country’s most dynamic innovation corridors. Known for its pedestrian-friendly streetscapes and proximity to Stanford University, the area is home to a mix of professional services and venture-backed startups, and the building has long attracted both law firms and emerging tech companies. 525 University’s prime location continues to make it one of the most desirable office addresses in the region.
About HGA
HGA is a national interdisciplinary design firm committed to making a positive, lasting impact for our clients and communities through research-based, holistic solutions. We believe that great design requires a sense of curiosity—forming deep insight into our clients, their contexts, and the human condition. We are a collective of over 1,200 architects, engineers, interior designers, planners, researchers, and strategists. Our practice spans multiple markets, including corporate, science and technology, cultural, education, local and federal government, and healthcare. Visit HGA.com or follow on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
About CM Capital
CM Capital, founded in 1969, has been an active real estate investor, operator and partner in Silicon Valley, achieving financial success and contributing to its community. Its portfolio of closely situated, Downtown Palo Alto office buildings, anchored by 525 University and it’s plaza, is collectively called University Park – www.universityparkpaloalto.com.
HGA Media Contact
Michelle Nelsen, Public Relations Director
mnelsen@hga.com