Stephen Hawking Centre at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

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Stephen Hawking Centre Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics Waterloo, ON, Canada

The newly-built Stephen Hawking Centre at the Perimeter Institute involves a major expansion of the renowned existing research facility in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

The form and architectural solution of the expansion focused on the creation of a unified whole that expresses in architectural terms the cutting edge research of the Perimeter Institute scientists through transparency, continuity, and the making of new spaces for collaboration.

The Centre doubles the size of the existing complex, allowing the accommodation of many more top physicists and increasing the capacity of Perimeter’s scientific research, training and outreach programs. The design strategy for this challenging project focused on creating a variety of ideal work environments­­­­—from quiet spaces for private contemplative thought and mathematical calculations, to comfortable scientific interaction areas that facilitate multi-disciplinary collaborations, and formal presentation rooms with the very latest audio-visual and IT infrastructure to support and promote constant communication with other research communities around the world.

“ We asked them to provide the optimal environment for the human mind to conceive of the universe ” Neil Turok, DIRECTOR Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

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Perimeter Institute fosters the exchange of ideas between the normally discreet disciplines of physics.

This cross-disciplinary interaction is achieved both through the organization and spatial qualities of the Centre.

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The Centre is fully integrated with the original Institute via a four-storey circulation spine, which interconnects three pods of research offices.

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Constantly changing Christie Panels demonstrate current activities to the public.

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Multiple layers of transparency break down spatial boundaries, enabling researchers to see activities on various levels simultaneously.

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The circulation spine leads into the key interaction space of the Black Hole Bistro.

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The Black Hole Bistro was placed at grade, encouraging the interaction of scientists from the moment they enter the facility.

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The Bistro was placed within the existing reflecting pool, overlooking Silver Lake.

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Circulation routes weave through the central spine.

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The space of the spine is formed by the interaction of the research pods.

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The Cyclic Stair brings students to new classroom facilities created to accommodate the expanded Perimeter Scholars International (PSI) graduate program.

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A full range of scales and types of exchange are promoted through the design.

Small interaction nooks are located throughout the building’s key circulation spaces, encouraging accidental discussion.

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Interaction areas at half levels break down barriers between floors—interconnecting all scientists on all levels.

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New classrooms feature enhanced ‘wraparound’ blackboards with sliding panels.

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Special spaces, such as the “Sky Room,� promote larger gatherings and discussion. Here, ideas are developed, critiqued and featured.

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Views of the reflecting pool at night highlight the building’s transparency and interconnection with its environment.

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The expansion ‘hovers’ over the existing reflecting pool, such that it occupies virtually no additional footprint.

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