In this project, RND Architects renovated Duke Regional Hospital’s Linear Accelerator #1 Suite. The existing facility was proving inadequate in regard to efficiency and capacity.
The project scope involved finish upgrades, lighting and ceiling improvements, and the installation of a new linear accelerator equipment, which required the design and construction of specialty floor systems within a thick concrete floor slab.
This project’s goal was to relocate an assortment of Duke University Medical Center (DUMC) Core labs into an existing building on campus. The program included cytology, histology, surgical pathology, hematology, molecular diagnostics, cyto-genetics, and microbiology lab spaces.
Our design team conducted a lab-by-lab, room-by-room, bench-by-bench programming effort for each specialty to clearly define their needs, functions, and utility requirements. The first phase of construction was in a shell space – an 8,000 SF windowless basement. Ceiling reveals and up-lighting techniques were used to communicate circulation paths and break up and otherwise large room with a continuous ceiling.
Phase two involved renovations in the adjoining structure. Through careful coordination between the designers and engineers, rectilinear “clouds” were created to hover over the lab work areas. The surrounding circulation was left to the open structure above. Also included in this phase was the routing of an existing tube system from the nearby hospital through the ceiling of an underground connector tunnel. Pedestrian circulation was maintained throughout this entire process.
For the Microbiology lab, we created a BSL-3 clean room for a mycology and mycobacteriology lab accessed through a BSL-2 anteroom. The increased air flow requirements of this particular lab required extending a new rated shaft up through two floors – the top of which was a surgical suite.
Design and construction of a new columbarium at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill. The design was inspired by columbaria of the local area and modified to match the architectural elements of the existing church. The project also involved the design of a beautiful permanent brick walkway from the church to the columbarium and specialty lighting.
RND is currently providing design services to repair and upgrade the Cary Koka Booth Amphitheater. Included within the project scope is the renovation of the wood deck and railings that were originally installed in 2000.
The project will also address an assortment of ADA site deficiencies. Our team designed accessible routes from all parking lots to the seating areas, as well as routes between each seating area. In addition, we provided multiple schematic design concepts for upgrades to the VIP seating deck. Included with each schematic design were cost estimates for review and selection.
Following an intensive and successful programming and planning process, RND was hired to construct the new Western Regional State Crime Laboratory for the NC Department of Justice.
RND managed the entire process from concept to close-out. The design prioritizes maintenance, durability, and simplicity to streamline the Crime Lab’s processes and procedures. The new facility houses a number of highly technical and specialty labs, as well as an assortment of offices and support spaces. High performance building systems and technologies were integrated in the design while achieving a simplified, user-friendly aesthetic.
The new facility, which has received unanimous praise, has dramatically increased case turn-around time and lab productivity.
For several years, RND has collaborated with the Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) department to design strategic renovations which address the aesthetics, maintainability, accessibility, and function of their public park facilities. Though the priority has been to make the interior experience pleasant for the visitor and vandal-resistant for City maintenance, another important project component was transforming the building exteriors to appear more approachable.
Our team strategically designed improvements at five park locations, including the award-winning Wrightwood Park renovation. There, we enhanced the existing picnic structure by replacing the roof and improving its visibility by removing “hiding spaces”. In the kiosk-type structures, we removed warts such as rusty grills and doors, as well as mysterious and unused wall openings, to simplify and neutralize their forms. Following the removal and replacement of these building components, the City hired local artists to interpret each park’s activity in a unique way. The result is a vibrant transformation of standard building types into unique personas at each location.
The structures – now fun, safe and vibrant – represent a significant effort to provide visual relief, human comfort, and good public service for Durham Parks users.
Mural artists in order from left to right: East End Park (Sarahlaine Calva), Garrett Road Park (Jermaine Powell), Solite Park (Cornelio Campos)
RND is providing design and construction services for a new presentation stage and restroom facility at the WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC. Working within a limited budget and unusual site conditions, our team has designed a multi-functional structure to meet several park needs.
The back of the facility will house public restrooms which were designed with maintenance and durability as a main priority. At the front, a small, covered stage will provide a platform for award ceremonies during tournaments.
The Renaissance Computing Institute (RENCi) launched an innovative research partnership with UNC Chapel Hill, Duke University, and NC State University in 2005. The new program aims to identify, research, and solve immanent challenges within North Carolina, the greater nation, and the world.
RENCi commissioned RND to provide space planning, architectural design, and interior design services for their new headquarter offices at the Europa Center. The project scope involved the design of 12,000 square feet of Class A office space and 2,000 square feet of high density computer rooms.
Integrated within the administrative spaces were visualization labs, video conferencing rooms, a robotics lab, a new HD Edit Suite, and high performance data center. In order to accommodate the power and cooling loads of the renovated areas, our architectural team worked closely with consultant engineers to ensure project success.
The building’s program includes a black box theatre with re-configurable seating. Structural reinforcements were designed and constructed for the specialty sound and lighting equipment. In addition, our designers created a rehearsal space for Elon’s McCrary Theatre. This space features a sprung dance floor, acoustic isolation, integrated sound systems, and specialty lighting design.
The building’s program was completed with a public lobby, dressing rooms, storage spaces, shops, locker rooms, and restrooms.
The following facilities were included within the project scope:
We performed a number of renovation services, ranging from major building system upgrades to interior and exterior cosmetic upgrades. In addition, our professionals provided accessibility upgrades, life safety improvements, site modifications, lighting upgrades, waterproofing services, and electrical replacements at all six recreation centers.
When possible, our team also integrated sustainable building practices. Low VOC materials, water-saving fixtures, and energy efficient roof solutions were utilized in an effort to improve the life cycle of each facility. In its completion, the renovations revitalized the relationship between local communities and the City’s recreation department.
