Kubota Tractor’s Western Distribution Center is the largest single-story building in Elk Grove, California. This expansive warehouse facility services dealers across 11 western states and accommodates a variety of functions for Kubota’s operations, including regional management, finance, parts, service, assembly, a dedicated training center, and foreign trade zone capabilities. From this facility, Kubota operates “Kubota University,” a hands-on training program aimed at teaching the skills necessary for the operations, maintenance, and sales of Kubota tractors and equipment.

The building façade incorporates strategic fenestrations, vibrant paint schemes, and prominent articulations which provide visual speedbumps along the necessarily large spans of tilt-up concrete walls. The steel-framed arcade leading from the parking to the entry, and the double-height glass at the corner, help to offset the structure’s magnitude and visually anchor the approach. The facility has future growth in mind and can expand up to 1 million square feet in future phases. RMW collaborated over the course of this project with Alston Construction to design the rear wall to remain in place, but with future knock-out openings to allow functional movement of personnel and equipment once the expansion is completed.