Firm Culture
Design Culture
Our culture is defined by our dedication to turning ideas into architecture that transforms lives and communities. We believe great design comes from a process that is both rigorous and inclusive— doing great work in a way that is both challenging and respectful of everyone involved. We are a passionate group of thinkers and makers who approach every design opportunity with curiosity, intelligence, and an open mind.
Design at Duda|Paine is a collaborative, iterative process. We explore ideas through hand sketching, quick physical models, digital tools, and thoughtful discussion. Pin-ups and informal reviews are regular parts of our workflow, offering opportunities to share feedback, refine concepts, and learn from one another’s perspectives.
Our commitment to design excellence is a shared value that shapes our identity and drives us forward. It informs how we work together, how we engage with our clients and communities, and how we define success.
Community Engagement
Our commitment to community extends beyond our projects. We believe architects have the responsibility to support equity, foster connection, and strengthen the places where we live and work. Through volunteerism, mentorship, and advocacy, we engage with our local community in Durham and the Triangle area to build meaningful relationships and contribute to a more inclusive and resilient future.
Continual Learning
At Duda|Paine Architects, we believe continual learning is essential to great design. We learn from our clients, consultants, and peers in the architectural industry—and from each other within our open studio environment. Weekly all-staff meetings provide a space to share lessons learned from ongoing work, while lunch-and-learns with industry partners keep us informed about new tools and methods. Site visits to projects under construction allow us to observe how ideas take shape in the built world. Every project becomes an opportunity to expand knowledge, exchange ideas, and build a collective understanding that strengthens our work across the firm.
Mentorship & Professional Development
We are dedicated to supporting the growth of our team through mentorship and collaboration. Our open studio environment fosters everyday opportunities to learn from peers and leaders across the firm. We actively support emerging professionals through resources for licensure, exposure to client-facing experiences, and encouragement of individual professional interests. Team members at all career stages are empowered to engage in local and national organizations like AIA, SCUP, and others—broadening their networks and perspectives while contributing to the advancement of the profession.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At Duda|Paine Architects, we are committed to fostering a workplace culture rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that the individual differences and lived experiences of our team members—across age, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, and other characteristics that make our employees unique—are essential to the strength and success of our practice.
We recognize that an inclusive studio culture enhances our design work, strengthens our relationships, and contributes to the well-being of our staff and the communities we serve. Our policies and practices are designed to provide equitable access to professional growth, leadership, and community impact. We are committed to honest dialogue, and collective action that advances equity—in our studio, in our profession, and in the built environment.
Team Building
At Duda|Paine Architects, our social culture is rooted in connection and community. We believe that getting to know each other beyond our work builds a stronger, more collaborative studio. From cheering on the Durham Bulls to informal happy hours at nearby breweries, we make time to gather and unwind. In-office celebrations—from holiday parties to the spirited DPA Olympics—bring energy and fun to our space. Whether celebrating a win or supporting one another through challenges, we value the moments that strengthen our bonds as a team.
