United Therapeutics Biotech Facility

Ardurra delivered civil and structural design services for a grassroots biotech facility comprising a two-story, 200,000-square-foot complex integrating production, packaging, warehouse operations, research and development laboratories, and administrative offices. The sophisticated facility includes a distinctive circular 150-seat auditorium and an elliptical front entrance, both designed as rigid frames using structural tube shapes with welded connections.

The advanced building design incorporated metal-panel cladding, glass curtain walls, and "spider" glass systems, while also providing structural support for equipment vital to production processes. Civil engineering services for the 35-acre site development encompassed comprehensive site layout, grading, erosion control, stormwater management, and water/sewer utilities with critical permitting assistance.

Key Design Services:

• Designed a 200,000 SF biotech facility integrating production, packaging, warehouse, R&D laboratories, and administrative operations

• Engineered distinctive architectural elements, including a circular 150-seat auditorium and an elliptical entrance, using rigid frame structural systems

• Implemented an advanced building envelope featuring metal panels, glass curtain walls, and spider glass systems

• Provided structural support for critical production equipment throughout manufacturing and laboratory areas

• Developed 35-acre site infrastructure, including grading, utilities, and stormwater management, with future expansion considerations

• Designed dual detention basins satisfying stormwater regulations while accommodating future site build-out, reducing permit modifications

• Addressed environmental constraints, including existing intermittent streams and FEMA floodplains, throughout site design

The biotech facility provides Research Triangle Park with state-of-the-art biotechnology infrastructure, demonstrating strategic site planning that accommodates future expansion.  Comprehensive environmental considerations and advanced structural design establish a foundation for continued research and production operations that support the growth of North Carolina's biotechnology industry.