Amazon's new HQ2 in Northern Virginia, housing 8,000 employees, is a departure from the company's traditional austere corporate culture, featuring luxurious amenities and elegant designs. However, the future of HQ2 is uncertain as the planned expansion is on hold. Amidst the grandeur, Amazon faces a return to austerity, having terminated 27,000 workers following a pandemic-induced expansion. The company remains committed to bringing 25,000 jobs to northern Virginia, with state officials agreeing to pay $22,000 for each full-time position with an average salary of $150,000.