Facilities
Bridge
Across Cultures
The Charles B. Wang Center comprises 120,000 square feet of interior
spaces and 35,000 square feet of gardens. Built at a cost of more than
$40 million,
it constitutes one of the largest donations to any public university, the
largest single donation to the State University of New York, and the largest
donation to Stony Brook University.
Architect P.H. Tuan has captured Wang’s
ideals in a building resonant with the traditions of Asian design. Spare
gray walls, pierced with three
red trellis entrances, invite the visitor to explore the treasures of
the interior. Within, Tuan has unified the elements of interior space,
the
outdoors, and the enclosing sky, using wide expanses of glass to frame
traditional Asian gardens, pools, and bridges.
The Center has the capability to link scholars and researchers from all over the world in real time, and it welcomes many cultural and artistic activities, especially those that reflect the cultures of Asia. Scholars, students, international business people, and Asian-American communities use the facility to build bridges of understanding, exchange information, and celebrate their cultural identities.
The
main ceremonial entrance leads across an ornamental pool into a spacious
reception area. Here, four 16-foot columns support clerestory windows.
The three-story space is filled with natural light and the sound
of
fountains that flow from 12 Chinese Zodiac sculptures into the
south pool.
To the north of the lobby is an expansive outdoor garden, while more intimate interior galleries lie west and south. These are designed as a showcase for cultural displays and art exhibitions of varying sizes. A 239-seat theater hosts audiences for the performing arts and other events.
Well equipped with conference facilities, the Center holds two mid-sized lecture halls that are wired for laptops and the most current audiovisual presentations.
The
building is dominated by a 100-foot octagonal pagoda,
a structure traditionally associated with Chinese temples. Floodlit
at night, it serves as a beacon that speaks of the high purposes
to which
the Center is dedicated.
A serene interdenominational chapel offers space for personal meditation, ceremonies, and general events.
The Center is an international hub bringing Asians and Americans into a common space, a marketplace of ideas for the 21st Century.
Jasmine Restaurant
Located on the second floor, the
elegant Asian eatery Jasmine features Chinese, Indian, Japanese Grill,
Sushi, and Thai food, with other Asian cuisines included in the daily food
specials. The 8,300-square-foot facility accommodates more than 350 people
and consists of a large open dining room as well as a private dining area
for parties and special events.
Conference and Event Facilities
If you would like
more information about hosting an event or conference at the Wang Center
or elsewhere on the
campus of Stony Brook University, please contact:
