Conceived as a cloud – a natural object that is both scaleless and ever-changing – the $85-million building will hover over a landscape that combines artificial and natural landscape features. A prominent feature of the landscape, a rock inspired by the geology of Georgian Bay, will provide a roof over design workshops and project areas. In contrast to laboratory spaces that support rigorous engineering research, the project areas will accommodate activities for creative design and production. “This is a great day for York,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri. “The creation of a new Engineering Building is an important milestone on our path to achieving York’s longstanding vision of broadening the academic programs available to our students, supporting innovation and economic development.”