MIT Ray & Maria Stata Center Boston

Years ago, thinking about science and technology schools evoked a picture of unvaried, structured surroundings with serious students. Today, these schools are at the forefront of defining the idea of futurism and cutting edge. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Ray & Maria Stata Center makes science look cool, inspiring and collaborative, not just from its interiors but from its exteriors as well.

Built in 2004, the Stata Center is quirk personified. Nothing about it looks conventional at first appearance. The buildings look tilted at steep curves, have inner angles made with a combination of bricks, aluminum, corrugated metal and painted in bright colors. The center also has a small amphitheater at its back entrance and houses several research labs, collaborative spaces and offices.

Having visited MIT on several occasions, the center never fails to surprise me! Designed by L.A.-based Frank Gehry & Associates, it is a wondrous place to discover the intersection of science, creativity and a bit of crazy!