The Whitworth Laboratory (see below), designed by J. W. Beaumont and built in 1909 sits on the south-west corner of the centre.

The New Physics Laboratory occupies the south-eastern corner.  It dates from 1930 and was designed by Percy Scott Worthington.

The new centre, which binds together these two older buildings, incorporates: "3 large postgraduate research studios, a 4th multi-function studio for undergraduate teaching and work, a large 14-workstation computer cluster, supporting technical spaces, offices and computer/network hubrooms."  There is also a 350-seat concert hall and a 150-seat studio theatre.  The new section of the building, constructed by Harry Fairclough Construction Ltd, is clad in zinc.

The University website says of the Centre, "Now into its 7th year, the Martin Harris Centre offers a widely diverse programme of events, hosting many prize-winning authors, musicians and performers."