In its architectural expression, the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre looks to the restrained Georgian Classicism of the University’s older buildings. The building’s state-of-the-art greenhouse draws its form from the rich history of glass houses and conservatories (RAMSA, 2020)

The K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre and Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens consist of internationally significant facilities for botanical and environmental research, six acres of public gardens representing native plant communities of the Acadian Forest Region, a glassed-in winter garden, a garden of medicinal and food plants, plus fully wired conferencing and educational facilities. Construction began in the fall of 1999, 100 years after the birth year of K.C. Irving. The landscape architect was Alex Novell of Novell-Tullett, Bristol, England.  The architects for the award-winning building were Bob Stern, Graham Wright and Preston Gumberich of Robert A.M. Stern Architects, New York.

Undoubtedly the most beautiful room on campus, the Garden Room is the perfect location for meetings, studying, quiet contemplation or concerts.

Acadia’s manmade environment is nearly as beautiful as its natural one, the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre is an ideal blend of the scientific and aesthetic. The facilities are named for distinguished alumnus and successful businessman Kenneth Colin Irving (1899-1992) and are a gift from his family. The very first thought behind the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre was “students” and creating a very special place for them to meet. Exemplifying that thought is the Garden Room, conceived by K.C. Irving’s son Arthur, an open airy meeting and gathering place.

Filled with natural light, it is ideal for relaxing with a book, having a quiet conversation with friends, or catching up on some work. In the colder months, a fire is always burning in the efficient Rumford Fireplace. The Garden Room is open to students, visitors, community and faculty from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with extended hours during exam periods.

Students in conservatory
The conservatory is another beautiful place to meet for a discussion, to study, or simply relax and de-stress amid the greenery.

In addition to the Garden Room, the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre contains state-of-the-art research laboratories, greenhouses, a conservatory, and controlled environmental facilities.

The Board Room is a beautiful space that can accommodate 30+ people. The views of the Acadia campus and the Bay of Fundy from this second flood room are stunning.

The K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre is the ideal venue to host meetings and conferences, It includes a fully accessible, completely wired, 124-seat auditorium, a library and video conference centre, classrooms, lecture rooms, meeting spaces and conference rooms.