The six-storey academic and research facility is designed to embrace three key objectives: to create a new entrance to the McMaster University campus; to serve as a learning tool for engineering students; and to demonstrate leadership by utilizing the best in sustainable design and construction practices.

The facility integrates graduate and undergraduate teaching spaces, research laboratories including the School of Biomedical Engineering and the Centre for Micro and Nano-Systems, and an Administrative Centre for faculty. Sustainable features include a dual-duct supply air system, and triple glazed high-performance unitized curtainwall envelope,. Energy conservation includes programmable lighting ballasts fully integrated with daylight harvesting, 100% rainwater harvesting from the roof surface, and low flow fixtures.