DESIGNWORKS 2022

NC Dept of Agriculture + Consumer Services/ Steve Troxler Agriculture Sciences Center

Raleigh , NC

HH Architecture- Raleigh NC

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provides regulatory oversight and diagnostic testing to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of residents across the state and beyond. With programs to address food safety, pesticide regulation, fuel quality monitoring, weights and measures testing, and veterinary diagnostics, NCDA&CS is at the forefront of local and national consumer protection efforts.

In 2016, the Connect NC Bond referendum created an opportunity for a long overdue upgrade to several outdated and dispersed NCDA&CS facilities. Commissioner of Agriculture, Steve Troxler, had a vision to combine five department divisions into a single, consolidated laboratory and administrative complex that would reflect the agricultural heritage of NC and provide a long-lasting venue for state-of-the-art scientific research.

The goal of NCDA&CS was to create a workspace which fosters innovative, interdepartmental teaming among the five lab divisions.

Throughout the Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center, public space is identified through a two-story volume, daylit from a roof monitor and flanked by a variety of meeting and training rooms, informal gathering areas, and an employee breakroom. Each amenity area provides alternative workspaces and encourages collaboration by design.

Considering the building program and the rich agricultural history of North Carolina, the team selected interior finishes inspired by an agrarian palette. Familiar plant colors and patterns paired with wood ceilings and other natural elements link occupants to local outdoor scenery.

The Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center transforms traditional laboratory typology into innovative design and will serve the State for generations to come