The Center exemplifies the integration of innovative design, sustainability, and academic purpose, serving as a campus landmark and a model for urban architecture. Situated on a compact site along the Charles River, the 345,000-square-foot, 19-story structure unites 3,000 students, faculty, and staff from previously dispersed departments into a collaborative environment. The tower’s cantilevered volumes rotate around a central core, granting each department a distinct identity and outdoor space. The absence of corner offices and inclusion of a five-story atrium foster connectivity and interaction. A ribbon-like staircase links classrooms, collaboration zones, and workspaces, all bathed in natural light from the triple-glazed curtain wall, promoting intellectual cross-pollination and community building in line with the University’s commitment to interdisciplinary innovation.

After schematic design, the project was placed on hold in 2014. During this time, the academic program expanded, and the university adopted a robust Climate Action Plan. Re-engaged in 2018, the project team revised the program and schematic design to meet LEED Platinum standards and ensure the building would be operationally fossil fuel-free. Construction was approved in 2019, coinciding with the drilling of 31 geothermal boreholes.

The building’s LEED Platinum certification reflects its all-electric, operationally fossil fuel-free design. A geothermal system extending 1,500 feet underground provides energy-efficient heating and cooling. To avoid flooding, the Center is elevated five feet above Boston’s sea level rise guidelines and 1.25 feet above the university’s Elevation of Resilience. Permeable pavers manage stormwater, while eight rooftop gardens mitigate the urban heat island effect, retain rainwater, and provide natural insulation. The triple-glazed façade, enhanced by vertical and diagonal louvers, reduces energy consumption by 30%. Fresh air delivered over chilled beams optimizes indoor environmental quality, while low-to-zero carbon-emitting materials underscore the sustainable interior. First-floor finishes were minimized by prioritizing polished concrete floors complemented by casual collaborative spaces with area carpets and furniture. Flooring materials were carefully selected to reduce or eliminate volatile organic compound (VOC) off-gassing, ensuring a healthier indoor environment. The project exemplifies rigorous sustainability practices, achieving LEED Platinum certification, and avoiding natural gas, tropical hardwoods, and vinyl, with all wood FSC-certified.

The Center prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, creating equitable spaces for a diverse population of users. Public-facing amenities, including a café, incubator hub, and event spaces, extend its impact beyond the academic community, fostering stronger connections between the University and the city. Expansive views and abundant natural light reinforce the connection between occupants and the surrounding environment. Biophilic elements such as rooftop gardens and terraces promote well-being, underscoring the design’s human-centric approach. Economically, its geothermal system and energy-efficient strategies ensure long-term operational savings, with sustainability features adding less than 1% to construction costs.

The Center has advanced Boston University’s academic mission and increased student enrollment, with women now comprising 40% of matriculating students in data science.

Category:Green ArchitectureYear:2025Location: Boston, Massachusetts Architects:KPMB ArchitectsLead Architect:Bruce Kuwabara, Marianne McKenna, Luigi LaRocca, Paulo RochaLandscape Architects:Richard Burck Associates Inc.General Contractor:Suffolk ConstructionDesign Team:Lucy Timbers, David Smythe, Kael Opie, Tyler Loewen, Melissa Ng, Matt Krivosudsky, Tyler Hall, Amin Monsefi, Victor Garzon, Samantha Hart, Nicholas Wong, Olivia di Filice, Jason Chang, Fotini Pitoglou, Carolyn Lee, Kayley Mullings, and Arminé TadevosyanClient:Boston UniversityPhotographers:Tom Arban Photography and Nic Lehoux