Duke University’s Office of Development was formerly in historic, warehouse office space in Downtown Durham’s West Village. The University decided to relocate the 227-person group to the brand new, One City Center mixed-use, high-rise in Downtown Durham, leasing 42,000 sf over 2 floors, in the 30-floor tower. O’Brien Atkins’ designers were retained to develop the space program and design the fitup. The goal of the relocation and design was to develop and support growth while better enabling collaboration. While the Office of Development is not physically located on campus, the space celebrates the University’s rich culture through design and branding, helping to create a “Duke experience,” which is part of the group’s development mission to convey to potential donors.

O’Brien Atkins’ designers organized the deep floor plates into team zones with vibrant huddle spaces, meeting/phone rooms, open collaboration areas and health rooms. A large multi-purpose space on the third floor, with an inspiring view of Downtown Durham, includes a large café with festoon lighting to bring the groups together and act as a training space for town hall meetings. In the open office and private office spaces, Universal, sit-to-stand desk modules were utilized to bring the Office Standards in line with today’s ever-changing work environment.

Wayfinding with environmental graphics and branding is supported by a design theme and naming concept for conference rooms and spaces which honors Durham and Duke University. This concept pays homage to Durham neighborhoods, streets and historic sites, along with Duke University campus traditions.