While there are some good features in the current mathematics building, there are many improvements needed to give the mathematics department, and the mathematical sciences in general, a  first class interaction space which would be part of the investment needed succeed in the quality of hires we envision and to maintain the strong group already built.

Among the primary desirable features are:

1. •    More interaction space : both more formal and informal.

2. •    informal encounter space with blackboards

3. •    More private collaborative space for small working groups and undergraduate help sessions.

4. •    Better seminar space of variable size both large and medium size.

5. •    A common room with an outdoor section (with outdoor blackboard). This small feature will have an effect on recruiting.

1. •    Graduate student offices around a shared interaction space.

2. •    Two undergraduate interaction areas: One for quiet study and one for more social group work.

3. •    Good lighting and open flow

4. •    Multi level sliding blackboards made of real slate, roughened glass, or ceramic on Steel.

There are a number of considerations which should inform the ideal placement and design of a space of  the Duke mathematics department and the mathematical sciences in general.

The Duke mathematics department is very engaged in collaborations across campus. The primary nexuses of collaboration are now and in the future:

1. Structure of Data and Information: Computer Science, Statistics  and Electrical Engineering.

2. Mathematical Biology, Genomics and Physiology: Biology, Bio-Medical engineering, Med-school, basic science.

3.  String theory/Mathematical physics: Physics

4. Nonlinear Science and Condensed Matter: Physics and Mechanical Engineering.

In many ways, the Duke mathematics department currently finds itself itself in a nearly ideal location.

1. •    Collocated with Physics. Near Biology, engineering and the basic science of the Medical School.

2. Located centrally in the undergraduate campus. With its heavy undergraduate teaching, especially in the first and second year, it desirable to be close to its undergraduate teaching space to give a more integrated undergraduate experience.

3. No further from the library’s collection in mathematical sciences which is currently houses in Bostock Library. The library has been incrementally moved further and further from the department.  A decade ago it was in the mathematics/physics building. The collection is still used heavily and increasing the distance would have an adverse effect

The principle deficiency in mathematics current location is principally its distance from computer science and statistics. We see these departments, along with electrical engineering, as central to one of the principle future directions of mathematics department.

The relitively new building houses both mathematics and Statistics.

One problems is the lack of sound isolation between rooms. 

The Newton Institute is part of the Mathematical Sciences Complex at Cambridge. The main and small lecture halls have large, movable blackboards. There are many interaction spaces, formal and informal. To make the point, there are even blackboards in the bathroom and the elevator. The layout is open and airy with good light.