Business Details
48 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design & Planning Services in Durham, NC
Founded in 1978 by D'Pasquale, Thompson, and Wilson, DTW Architects & Planners is a locally-owned firm dedicated to delivering tailored architectural solutions. Our small-team approach fosters close client collaboration, ensuring personalized service from project inception to completion. With over four decades of experience in Central North Carolina, we specialize in navigating regional contractor networks and regulatory frameworks to deliver efficient, compliant projects. Our design philosophy prioritizes user-centric spaces through rigorous programming phases that analyze client needs and operational goals. Recognized for sustainable practices, we have achieved multiple LEED certifications and environmental awards, reflecting our commitment to energy efficiency and ecological stewardship.Our portfolio spans community, educational, historic, religious, and governmental projects, demonstrating versatility across sectors. As active members of the U.S. Green Building Council, we integrate cutting-edge sustainability strategies into every design. Our team of licensed architects and planners brings decades of collective expertise, ensuring projects meet deadlines, budgets, and safety standards. Client testimonials highlight our transparent communication and ability to transform complex challenges into functional, inspiring spaces. With a legacy of over 40 years, we remain focused on building lasting relationships and delivering architecture that serves both people and the environment.
Services
Architectural Design
Master Planning
Historic Renovation
Sustainable Design
Interior Design
Educational Facilities
Religious Spaces
Government Projects
Community Development
LEED Certification
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in Central North Carolina's architectural landscape.
- Our team holds multiple LEED-certified professionals with award-winning sustainable projects.
- We prioritize collaborative design processes with direct client communication throughout projects.
- We specialize in diverse sectors including historic preservation and educational facilities.
- Our firm has completed over 100 regional projects with proven regulatory compliance expertise.
Services
Architectural Design
We create custom architectural solutions tailored to client needs, focusing on functionality and aesthetic value. Our process includes detailed programming phases to understand user requirements. Projects range from educational facilities to religious spaces, ensuring compliance with all safety and regulatory standards.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable designs prioritize energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, incorporating LEED-certified practices. We utilize renewable materials and water-saving technologies to reduce ecological footprints. This approach has earned multiple environmental awards for innovative eco-friendly projects.
Historic Renovation
We specialize in preserving historical integrity while modernizing structures for contemporary use. Projects include adaptive reuse of landmarks like the Kimbrell Furniture Building. Our team balances preservation requirements with updated functionality and safety standards.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive plans for campus or community growth, considering long-term usability and environmental impact. This includes infrastructure planning and phased implementation strategies. Recent projects include master plans for educational institutions and retirement communities.
Interior Design
Our interior designs optimize spatial layouts for functionality and aesthetic appeal. We focus on creating environments that enhance user experience while meeting project goals. Services include material selection, lighting design, and compliance with accessibility standards.
People
Paul Young
President and Principal Architect
Paul Young leads DTW's architectural team with over 30 years of experience in educational and institutional projects. He specializes in sustainable design and has managed numerous LEED-certified buildings, emphasizing client collaboration and innovative problem-solving.
Kal Fadem
Architect
Kal Fadem contributes expertise in historic preservation and community projects, with a focus on adaptive reuse of heritage buildings. He has worked on multiple award-winning renovations, ensuring modern functionality while maintaining historical integrity.
Barbora Ngabyamahina
Architect
Barbora Ngabyamahina specializes in educational facility design, creating inspiring learning environments. Her work emphasizes natural lighting, flexible spaces, and sustainable materials to support modern pedagogical approaches.
Questions
What types of architectural projects does DTW specialize in?
DTW Architects specializes in community, educational, historic, religious, and governmental projects, with expertise in sustainable design and LEED-certified buildings.
How does DTW incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate energy-efficient systems, water-saving strategies, and eco-friendly materials, achieving LEED certifications and environmental awards for multiple projects.
What experience does DTW have in North Carolina?
With over 40 years serving Central North Carolina, we have deep knowledge of local regulations, contractors, and environmental considerations.
What is DTW's design process?
We begin with client programming sessions to analyze needs, followed by collaborative design phases ensuring functional, user-centric spaces.
Can DTW handle complex institutional projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with government, healthcare, and educational facilities, including Durham County's LEED-certified General Services Building.
