Duda|Paine was tasked with the headquarters design for non-profit research organization, RTI International, located in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

The mission of improving the human condition by turning knowledge into practice inspired the design for RTI International’s new global headquarters on the institute’s main campus in Research Triangle Park. The goal of the building is two-fold—serve as the catalyst for unifying the campus’ diverse research ‘silos’ and create a more public face for RTI’s extensive accomplishments.

The six-story office building, the largest on the campus, features a variety of collaboration spaces for colleagues, visitors and business and university research partners including a collaboration center, a new cafeteria with outdoor garden seating and a 300-person multipurpose space. The ground and second floor levels are the most public and allow for impromptu encounters among colleagues and visitors in dining and coffee bar areas. Second floor collaboration lounges, labs and diverse meeting spaces are open to everyone on campus. The first-level Impact Display highlights how the institute delivers the promise of science for global good. A company store includes branded items. A terrace overlooking RTI’s softball field and the landscape beyond encourages a connection to the outdoors for occupants. An adjacent, four-story parking structure provides approximately 650 spaces. The new headquarters building offers many amenities for staff and visitors while serving as a central gathering place for events and collaboration at RTI.

Designer: Duda|Paine

Contractor: DPR Construction

Photography: Robert Benson

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