Garden Gateway, Sarah P. Duke Gardens

The transformation of the beloved Sarah P. Duke Gardens adds a new entrance to the heart of campus. As the first campus project to implement Duke University’s 2019 High‑Performance Building Framework (HPBF), the project sets a precedent for sustainable design on campus.

Sustainability and land stewardship were central to the adaptive reuse and landscape design. Atelier Ten worked with the design team to integrate strategies aligned with the university’s sustainability goals including carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions by 2050. Both the Doris Duke Center and Gateway Building demonstrate over a 30% reduction in energy use compared to the ASHRAE baseline, exceeding the university’s 20% energy reduction goal. High‑performance building envelopes, efficient glazing, LED lighting with daylight‑responsive controls, and low‑flow plumbing fixtures contribute to the project’s carbon, energy reduction and water conservation goals.

Renovations extend the life of the Doris Duke Center and transform a former asphalt parking lot into an ecologically rich gateway to Duke Gardens, significantly reducing embodied carbon. Responsibly-sourced materials with high recycled content further lowers embodied carbon and strengthens the project’s overall carbon narrative.

Reflecting its role as an entry point to Duke Gardens, the design prioritizes ecological performance and visitor experience through tree and soil protection, expanded planting, low-impact construction, improved walkability, bird-friendly measures, and reduced light pollution. The Gateway strengthens the Garden’s connections with the university and surrounding community, fostering an environment for learning, wellness and respite.

Renderings courtesy of Duda Paine Architects