At Coffey Architects we understand how important it is to look far and wide for inspiration, particularly if we want to remain a leading architect in London. Sometimes looking at a single site can provide a great deal of inspiration though.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is renowned around the world for pushing design forwards. The University has always focused on applied science and engineering, promoting research and development. Several important technologies have been created or advanced at MIT including Radar, flight recorders, and lithium-ion batteries.

Not surprisingly when you consider the focus on developing science and engineering, MIT is home to a stunning collection of architecture. Throughout the years some of the most celebrated architects from around the world have designed buildings for the campus. The range of styles is impressive and gives the whole University a great atmosphere.

The Maclaurin Buildings by William Welles Bosworth are some of the oldest and most stunning. Known as buildings 3, 4, and 10, the neoclassical properties were part of the original plan for the site and were built in 1916. Of the three building 10 stands out for its colonnade facade and Giant Dome modelled on the Pantheon in Rome.

Baker House dates back to 1949 and was designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. The co-ed dormitory has a wonderful brick facade and a wave-like form. The rooms within are wedge shaped and also feature furnishings designed by Aalto.

A second Finnish architect, Eero Saarinen, contributed two incredible properties to the site. The MIT Chapel and Kresge Auditorium were both finished in 1955. The first is a brick cylinder surrounded by a moat with a sculptured aluminium bell tower on top. The auditorium is very different. It has a leaf-shaped domed roof and glass curtained walls on two sides.

Simmons Hall is often referred to as the Sponge due to the porous-looking facade. The building was designed by Steven Holl, commissioned in 1999 and finished in 2002. It is built from concrete and features cut-out terraces lined with colourful pre-cast panels.

Frank Gehry has one of the most instantly recognisable architectural styles. On the MIT campus is his Ray and Maria Stata Centre. The crinkled sculptural form uses a combination of metal and brick for the facade. The property was complete in 2004 and houses a wide array of facilities.

As you can see the array of designs is incredible and reflects a multitude of different styles. Who wouldn’t be inspired by them?