BWBR Expands National Reach with Acquisition of RND Architects in Durham

BWBR's Strategic Acquisition of RND Architects

In a significant move that bolsters its presence in the architectural landscape, BWBR, a well-regarded architecture and design firm based in St. Paul, Minnesota, has announced its acquisition of RND Architects, a Durham-based firm. This strategic endeavor is set to expand BWBR's national influence and enhance its operational capabilities in various sectors including healthcare, education, and public utility projects.

With the acquisition finalized on October 30, 2026, and the firms commencing joint operations shortly thereafter, this merger aims to harness RND's local expertise while providing them access to BWBR's extensive resources and experience. The Research Triangle region, known for its surge in growth and development, serves as a fertile ground for both firms to collaborate on larger, more complex projects, thereby elevating their service offerings.

Terri Ulrick, BWBR's president and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, emphasizing the opportunities it brings for both organizations. “We’ve had our eye on the Triangle for some time due to its remarkable growth,” she stated. “RND brings invaluable design experience and entrenched local relationships that dovetail perfectly with our mission.” With these synergies, both firms are poised to tackle substantial projects that require a blend of innovative design and local market understanding.

Charles Nickelson, a principal at RND, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting that the partnership with BWBR allows for greater opportunities for staff development while preserving the core values and personal relationships that RND has nurtured over the years. “BWBR shares our commitment to our employees, giving them more chances to advance their careers while maintaining our dedication to client service,” he noted.

RND will now operate under the BWBR name and will become the firm’s fourth office, joining existing locations in St. Paul, Madison, and Omaha. This merger is not merely a transaction but a conscious alignment of values—both firms have emphasized their commitment to long-term client relationships and quality design practices that positively impact communities.

Founded over a century ago, BWBR specializes in various domains such as science and technology, healthcare, and education, making it a formidable player in the national commercial design industry. With nearly 200 employees, the company maintains a people-first culture that prioritizes teamwork, equity, and community engagement.

This acquisition, more than just an increase in personnel or geographical reach, signifies a partnership rooted in an ethos of thoughtful design and service excellence. The coming together of BWBR and RND Architects not only reinforces their standing in the architectural field but also enhances their capacity to address the nuanced needs of clients across several sectors.

As the architecture industry faces evolving challenges and opportunities, the merger is a testimony to the power of collaboration in fostering innovative solutions to create environments that genuinely benefit the community. For BWBR, this expansion marks a promising future where local insights and national resources converge to build a better-designed world, one project at a time.

To learn more about BWBR and its diverse design ethos, visit www.bwbr.com.