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 In many large American cities, development often means demolishing historic buildings and the sense of culture upon which a city was first built. But that's not the case in Durham, North Carolina where developers have preserved and combined the architectural history and innovative building designs in one of the most distinctive and progressive developments in the Southeast; the American Tobacco Historic District.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Durham and close to the renowned Research Triangle Park and Duke University, the American Tobacco Historic District was founded upon the area's rich business heritage. This began in the late 1800s when innovative visionaries such as James B. Duke and others formed the tobacco empire known as the American Tobacco Company. The American Tobacco Company included the Lucky Strike brand whose smokestack was proudly restored in 2000. The American Tobacco Campus is adjacent to the Durham Bull's athletic park and stadium that has entertained baseball fans for decades.
Today, the American Tobacco Historic District is where history, business, the future, and a great location intersect. This unique development utilizes the brick factory buildings erected between 1874 and 1954, and is one of the largest projects of its kind to date. Just like innovator James B. Duke, the American Tobacco Historic District is now home to a diverse range of companies such as GlaxoSmithKline, Smith Breeden, Duke University, Compuware Corporation, Intersouth Partners and advertising agency McKinney.
 The American Tobacco Historic District, composed of more than a million square feet of Class A office space, is more than just a place to build a business. Retailers and restaurants are also drawn to the area because of the dynamic atmosphere that's created when commercial, retail, and residential uses are involved. The America Tobacco Historic District aslo includes 200 residential units designed to give residents one of the most unique living experiences available in the area. Residents are able to stroll to shops, cafes, restaurants, and other entertainment venues. Running, walking, and bike trails are surrounded by a soothing water feature to make outdoor fun easy and convenient. A fully equipped YMCA is just steps away as are more cultural amenities like the Durham Performing Arts Center.
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