A New Name with a Deep Meaning
Google has officially renamed its London headquarters to “Platform 37,” a choice that goes far beyond simple branding. The name pays homage to a pivotal moment in artificial intelligence history while also nodding to the building’s physical location. This move reflects the company’s commitment to celebrating innovation and making AI more accessible to the public.
Why “Platform 37”? Two Stories Behind the Name
Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, has explained that the name draws from two distinct sources. First, the building sits near London’s historic King’s Cross Station, a major railway hub. The word “Platform” directly references this connection, grounding the futuristic headquarters in its local geography.
Second, and more significantly, the number 37 commemorates “Move 37” from the legendary 2016 Go match between Google’s AI system AlphaGo and world champion Lee Sedol. During that game, AlphaGo made a move that human experts initially dismissed as a mistake. As the match progressed, that same move became the turning point, leading to AlphaGo’s historic victory. This moment is widely regarded as a landmark achievement in AI development, and Google chose to honor it by embedding the number into the headquarters’ name.
Architecture Designed for Collaboration
The building itself is a marvel of modern design, created by renowned architects Thomas Heatherwick and Bjarke Ingels. Its most striking feature is the “hung architectural structure,” which eliminates the need for internal columns. This open layout provides teams with flexible, unobstructed workspace, encouraging spontaneous collaboration and fluid movement.
Sustainability is also a core focus. The structure uses eco-friendly materials throughout and incorporates energy-efficient systems to minimize its environmental footprint. A rooftop garden, developed in partnership with local London organizations, adds greenery and supports urban biodiversity. This space is designed to be both a retreat for employees and a contribution to the city’s ecological health.
A Public Space for AI Education
Google is not keeping all of Platform 37 exclusive to its employees. On the ground floor, the company is creating “The AI Exchange,” a public space set to open later this year. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between advanced technology and everyday people.
Visitors to The AI Exchange can expect:
- Free educational programs that explain AI concepts in accessible ways
- Interactive exhibitions where people can engage directly with AI technology
- Cultural events exploring AI’s impact on society and daily life
This space is designed to demystify artificial intelligence, making it less intimidating and more understandable for the general public.
Timeline for Move-In
Google DeepMind teams and other departments will begin relocating to Platform 37 during the summer of this year. The company envisions the building as more than just an office—it is intended to become a hub for scientific discovery, where some of the most significant AI breakthroughs of the future will take shape.
By combining historical tribute, sustainable design, and public engagement, Platform 37 represents a new chapter in Google’s relationship with both technology and the community. The name serves as a constant reminder of how a single, unconventional move can change everything—and how innovation often comes from the unexpected.
