Microsoft opens Building 99 at Redmond campus

Microsoft has formally opened the new international headquarters for Microsoft Research at Building 99, the first of seven new sites on the software giant's West Campus.

West Campus will feature a central campus commons, offering employees a range of facilities including a post office, a mini-spa, a bookstore and 12 food venues, all planned for completion in April 2009.

Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices Division will occupy four of the seven new buildings.

"Continuing to build a world-class campus in Redmond is critical to a company like Microsoft that has innovative people as its greatest asset," said Chris Liddell, chief financial officer at Microsoft, who is overseeing the expansion.