The Richard Ivey Building at Western University, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects, is a contemporary interpretation of the campus’s traditional collegiate Gothic style. Completed in 2017, the 274,000-square-foot facility organizes academic life around a landscaped quadrangle, with a three-storey stone exterior that conveys permanence while concealing a warm, light-filled interior.

At its heart is the Great Hall, a full-height gathering space that fosters community and connection. Twenty tiered case-study classrooms, breakout rooms, lounges, and informal study areas are woven into the plan to support Ivey’s collaborative, case-based teaching method. Natural materials—walnut, Douglas fir, copper, and glass—create an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere, while floor-to-ceiling glazing maximizes daylight.

Sustainable strategies include operable windows, rainwater harvesting, and a reflecting pool that pre-conditions air, contributing to the building’s LEED Gold certification.

Symbolically, the structure embodies Ivey’s dual values of tradition and innovation, serving as both a landmark and a hub for business education.