University of Waterloo Mathematics 4 (M4)

Mathematics 4 (M4) establishes a physical and symbolic heart for the University of Waterloo's Faculty of Mathematics — the only dedicated math faculty in North America. At five storeys and 119,640 SF, the building creates a new campus gateway aligned with a Regional LRT stop while connecting three existing math buildings into a unified community. The design weaves mathematical and Indigenous values: sweeping arcs at the lower levels evoke both continuous mathematics and the circle as a symbol of unity, while binary rhythms on the upper façades reference discrete mathematics and the patterned language of wampum belts. A solar chimney with a parabolic wood screen acts as both environmental engine and cultural symbol. Designed for zero-carbon performance, M4 incorporates an existing building wing to retain embodied carbon, and captures waste heat from a consolidated server room to provide carbon-free heating.