Today’s iPhone 16 launch might make use of a new underground building at Apple Park called The Observatory. This building, adjacent to the Steve Jobs Theater on the Apple Park campus, “will be used for launch events and to showcase the brand’s latest technology,” according to a Deezen exclusive.
The timing of the announcement suggests the building will play a part in today’s “It’s Glowtime” event.
The Observatory, a new building at Apple Park
Photo: Apple
The Observatory, like the rest of Apple Park, makes beautiful use of white stone, light wood and large glass windows. Apple has been perfecting this architectural style for years in its Apple Stores and the sprawling Apple Park campus.
Nestled in the hills at Apple Park, and covered in trees, the Observatory’s large round window peeks out above the bushes. This window offers “stunning views of the campus greenery and the mountains ringing the horizon,” according to John De Maio, Apple’s global head of design in real estate and development. From the outside, it resembles the hobbit houses of the Lord of the Rings movies — or at least an Apple designer’s interpretation of them.
Entering The Observatory, a large, circular entrance hall features a 9-foot-wide ceiling window for natural lighting. The next room (with its big outside-facing window) features lots of seating, potted trees and open space. Apple will utilize this space for product demonstrations. Between events, it will serve as “a space for contemplation,” according to Deezen.
Apple builds a subterranean temple of tech
Photo: Apple
The Observatory sits on the south side of the Apple Park campus, near the Steve Jobs Theater. Journalists and influencers typically go there to watch Apple events. With a capacity of 1,000, it becomes pretty crowded during hands-on segments of product introductions. The Observatory’s proximity to the Steve Jobs Theater, and its cavernous interior, suggest Apple might use it as additional space for these events.
Like the rest of the Apple Park campus, solar energy powers The Observatory. And for every tree removed for its construction, Apple planted another. “From the selection of the concrete to the air filtration system to rainwater capture, every decision was made with the environment in mind,” said De Maio.
For more sights of Apple Park and its adjacent Developer Center, check out my photo album from WWDC22.
