A new campus landmark brings research, education, and living systems together

McMaster University’s Life Sciences Building and Greenhouse transforms the way natural systems are studied and experienced on campus by Moriyama Teshima Architcts (MTA). Integrated into the existing five-storey Life Sciences Building (LSB), the new 11,400-square-foot (approximately 1,059-square-meter) greenhouse replaces an aging off-site facility while bringing research, teaching, and student life into a shared environment.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and Greenhouse
Photo credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Designed as more than a dedicated research facility, the greenhouse makes science and nature visible as part of everyday campus life. Its expressive sawtooth roof and transparent façade face University Avenue, establishing a new identity for the LSB while revealing the activity taking place inside. Carefully positioned to maximize sunlight, the greenhouse wraps around the west and south sides of the existing building. At night, its illuminated structure becomes a prominent beacon within the campus.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

The arrival sequence is designed to provide an immediate connection to the research environment. Visitors enter through a warm, wood-framed portal before crossing a suspended bridge overlooking the two-storey greenhouse. The route leads to a light-filled mass-timber lobby, which forms a new social heart for the LSB. The space accommodates gathering, studying, informal meetings, and events, expanding the building’s role beyond academic research.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Within the greenhouse, semi-public areas are combined with secure research environments, allowing scientific activity to remain visible while supporting specialized work. More than 200 plant species are cultivated across wet rainforest and dry savannah environments, while dedicated research cells and support spaces provide controlled conditions for investigations into plant genomics, microbes, soil health, and other natural systems.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Transparency plays a central role in connecting these activities with the wider building. Glazing between circulation routes and research areas allows students, faculty, and visitors to observe the work taking place within the greenhouse, turning research into an integral part of the architectural experience.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

The use of natural materials further reinforces the connection between the building and the living systems it houses. Mass timber, wood finishes, abundant daylight, vegetation, and views into the greenhouse create a warm environment while bringing the qualities of the natural world into the interior. The project has achieved LEED Gold certification and contributes to McMaster University’s broader sustainability objectives.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

The greenhouse forms part of a multi-year renewal of the Life Sciences Building, introducing a range of improvements beyond the new research facility. These include additional spaces for gathering and collaboration, enhanced accessibility, and greater access to natural daylight. The project also introduces the first geothermal heating and cooling system on McMaster’s campus, adding an energy-conscious approach to the building’s long-term operation.

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Moriyama Teshima Architects – McMaster University Life Sciences Building and GreenhousePhoto credit: Riley Snelling

Together, the renewed Life Sciences Building and greenhouse establish a new model for integrating scientific research with the daily life of a university campus. By placing plants, research, and environmental systems within direct view, the project creates an immersive setting in which architecture becomes an interface between people and the natural systems they seek to understand.

Moriyama Teshima Architects (MTA)

Founded in 1958, Moriyama Teshima Architects (MTA) is an award-winning Canadian practice known for thoughtful, enduring design across sectors including post-secondary education, civic and cultural institutions, Indigenous centres, libraries, and master planning. With over 200 design accolades, including six Governor General’s Medals, MTA is widely recognized for shaping projects that resonate with place, advance sustainability, and foster vibrant public life.

As leaders in mass timber innovation and sustainable architecture, they prioritize regenerative design practices that reduce carbon impact, enhance building resilience, and support long-term institutional and community stewardship. MTA is committed to universal accessibility and inclusive design, ensuring buildings welcome people of all abilities and backgrounds. Their approach integrates land, building, people, and process, producing architecture that is flexible, locally rooted, and socially attuned.