This thesis explores the science center as the materialization of institutional ideals for a science-literate society in a building design challenging the role of architecture as a vehicle for communication. This investigation operates with the fundamental notion that architecture is an effective communicator when facilitating the experience of the built environment, rather than relying on its power as a centerpiece. Therefore I intend to investigate how this built form engages with the landscape, serving as a 'backdrop' that heightens the experience of transitioning between the man-made and the natural landscape condition, while revitalizing the riverfront and serving as a gateway between currently disparate neighborhoods.

The science program allows further exploration of the extent to which the transmission of information exists in the architecture itself, or whether the architecture, with the intention of remaining versatile, again serves as the backdrop, therefore allowing the communication to occur solely through the exhibition design.