Projects

The Commons

Striking community hub in Durham, NC
Project Type:
Hospitality
Year:
2025
Scope:
4,000 SF
Client:
Leading Developer
Design Firm:
Empire & Co.

Photos by Catherine Nguyen

A striking community hub rooted in modern design and local character.
Where neighbors meet, work, and celebrate in a design-forward clubhouse.
Project Overview

Designed as the social heart of the community, this 4,000-square-foot clubhouse functions as a modern “town hall” where residents can gather, work, and host events with equal ease. The great room anchors the space, planned around long communal tables as well as larger neighborhood functions, echoing the flexibility of contemporary co-working environments. At the builder’s request, impactful lighting and industrial-inspired touches were incorporated to reinforce a modern, collaborative atmosphere.

The palette of dark metals. warm woods, and raw materials establish a welcoming yet contemporary tone. Dramatic, multi-tier glass chandeliers create striking focal points, adding refinement and visual interest while emphasizing the scale of the space. Seating areas in the great room and the covered porch were arranged to encourage both casual conversation and larger shared family experiences, while the bar area extends the room’s functionality for events and social gatherings.

Furnishings from Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Hi5 Furniture, AMISCO, and Fairfield Chair balance durability with comfort, supporting high-traffic daily use without sacrificing style. A sculptural bull placed at the front entry serves as a bold, memorable reference to Durham’s “Bull City” identity, anchoring the space in local identity.

Project Type:
Hospitality
Year:
2025
Scope:
4,000 SF
Client:
Leading Developer
Design Firm:
Empire & Co.

Photos by Catherine Nguyen

Where neighbors meet, work, and celebrate in a design-forward clubhouse.

Photos by Catherine Nguyen

Project Overview

Designed as the social heart of the community, this 4,000-square-foot clubhouse functions as a modern “town hall” where residents can gather, work, and host events with equal ease. The great room anchors the space, planned around long communal tables as well as larger neighborhood functions, echoing the flexibility of contemporary co-working environments. At the builder’s request, impactful lighting and industrial-inspired touches were incorporated to reinforce a modern, collaborative atmosphere.

The palette of dark metals. warm woods, and raw materials establish a welcoming yet contemporary tone. Dramatic, multi-tier glass chandeliers create striking focal points, adding refinement and visual interest while emphasizing the scale of the space. Seating areas in the great room and the covered porch were arranged to encourage both casual conversation and larger shared family experiences, while the bar area extends the room’s functionality for events and social gatherings.

Furnishings from Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Hi5 Furniture, AMISCO, and Fairfield Chair balance durability with comfort, supporting high-traffic daily use without sacrificing style. A sculptural bull placed at the front entry serves as a bold, memorable reference to Durham’s “Bull City” identity, anchoring the space in local identity.