Scientific investigation is never linear.  It is circuitous and complex.  It requires imagination, dialogue, and openness to disparate views.  The goals behind the new LMU science building are to promote collaboration and to enhance the exchange of ideas within the different fields of science and with fields outside of science.  This is achieved by means of two architectural strategies: a public circulation ramp and a programmatically active ground plane.  The multi-pronged, public circulation ramp system weaves through the building knitting together all the different parts of the building program.  This strategy encourages scientists from the various scientific fields housed within the building to cross paths facilitating the informal exchange of ideas.