The Nebula project was inspired by the polarized ideas of creation and destruction, symbolizing both the birth of new stars and the remnants of dying ones, dual phenomena coexisting in time. Architecturally, this concept is expressed primarily through two programmatic elements: porches/canopies and lighting. The aim is to evoke the notion of creation and disintegration, depending on your perspective, as you move along the Jeanne D’Arc façade toward the Champlain face, and finally arriving at the façade facing the parking area on the south side of the building.

The porches and canopies, which mediate between the public and private realms, respond to and echo similar forms on the adjacent lots to the east along Jeanne D’Arc. They are initially orthogonal, but as you move westward, they gradually disintegrate in form. As the structure approaches the corner, it transforms into a long, stretched canopy, extending across both time and space. Upon rounding the southwest corner, the form reappears but has been abstracted. Curvature is introduced, creating a sense of distortion, as if bending through time. The supports curve toward the structure, and rainwater, collected through an opening and chain-water leader, symbolizes the giver of life and form, revealing water as an elemental force.

Lighting, which draws inspiration from the nebula and starlight, is more literally realized through the pinpoint starlight effect found under the recessed entrances. This innovative lighting design was expertly executed by Bruce Meiklejohn of LightinForm.