SUNY Stony Brook Simons Center

The Simons Center for Geometry and Physics, a research institute within Stony Brook

University, is dedicated to furthering fundamental knowledge of mathematics and

theoretical physics and to promoting collaboration and discovery at the interface of these

two fields. The landscape concept for the Center took on the challenges of advancing

this mission while giving visual expression to current understandings in science and

mathematics, a task fostered by a particularly close collaboration with faculty.

The Center and its surrounding landscape provide an important campus destination,

one that supports the Center’s unique academic program and sustainability mission.

The fountains create dramatic outdoor spaces while forming an integral element of the

building’s cooling and mechanical systems; terraces and greenroofs provide valuable

social gathering space while moderating the temperature of the building and capturing

rainwater; a kitchen garden on the dinning terrace offer herbs and vegetables for use by

the building’s cafe as well as a space for quiet study and intimate gathering.

Outdoor learning spaces featuring durable with slate chalkboards, to facilitate

collaboration, problem-solving, discussion, and spontaneous exchange outside the

classroom. Iconic forms illustrating mathematical concepts, such as geometric Penrose

tile paving in the auditorium plaza, and wave-form planters on the terrace, demonstrate

beauty in subtle complexity and promote the Center’s distinct identity. Seasonally

interesting native plants, recalling the vernacular Long Island dune landscape, enhance

the University’s sense of place.

Location
Stony Brook, NY

Size
1 acre

Collaborators
Perkins Eastman Architects

Recognition
SARA NY Award of Excellence SARA National Award of Merit SCUP Honor Award for Landscape Architecture