The Salk Institute building perfectly suits the bright clear skied climate of Southern California. The ratio of positive to negative space is 50:50, the positive being regularly interrupted by views across, through and out toward the sea. The rectangular courtyard draws one back again and again, the subtle leading lines of shallow channels, raised edging on cast concrete, travertine marble benches combing to make a contemplative thoughtful place.
Sally Wakelin - Studies in Creativity 