The building has uniquely inviting atmosphere throughout with its six wood-burning fireplaces, lounges, informal meeting areas and numerous espresso machines. A reflecting pool abuts the north side of the building, providing a clear demarcation of the Institute from the park, while offering an added perspective of reflection and tranquility. To enhance the quality of natural light a large exterior courtyard was created in the heart of the facility adjacent to a large atrium with a glass roof. The building is open on the western side to diminish shadows and to allow for the maximum passage of light in the afternoon.

Three bridges span the exterior garden connecting the building on the third and fourth levels, with each bridge culminating in an informal meeting area allowing an easy continuance of scientific discussion for researchers returning from a seminar or a meal.  The building has four levels and is approximately 65,000 square feet. There are 44 scientific offices on the north side. These, together with larger offices on the south side, give the Institute a steady-state capacity of some 80 researchers in the building at any given time, in addition to some administrative staff and an additional 20-30 graduate students.

The facility also contains the bi-level George Leibbrandt Library, two seminar rooms (each with a capacity of 50-60 people), the 205 seat Mike Lazaridis Theatre of Ideas and the naturally attractive Black Hole Bistro, complete with a rooftop deck.

You can view more information and additional photos that detail the design history, form and function of Perimeter Institute as follows:

Theory of Creation
This article, in Canadian Architect, is authored by Perimeter Institute’s Executive Director, Howard Burton, and relates the challenges of conceiving, designing and building an institute dedicated to theoretical physics research.

The Science of Space
This article, in Canadian Architect, reviews Saucier + Perrotte’s design and offers in-depth insight into the creation of the new building.