American Underground Returns to American Tobacco Campus

 A full-circle homecoming for Durham’s leading coworking community

Durham, N.C. (May 29, 2025) –  In a move that brings one of Durham’s most iconic innovation stories full circle, CBC Real Estate announced today that American Underground (AU) will return to its original home at the American Tobacco Campus (ATC) in late 2025.

AU first launched in the basement of ATC in 2010, inspired by the gritty entrepreneurial spirit that has defined Durham for generations–and driven by a bold idea: that Durham’s entrepreneurs deserved a space of their own. What began as an experiment with just a few teams has since grown into one of the Triangle’s most recognized coworking communities, home to 275+ startups and small businesses across its downtown footprint.

“This is a homecoming,” said Laura Zabinski, Executive Director at American Underground. “American Tobacco Campus was our launchpad and the place where our community first came to life. We’ve grown alongside Durham’s founders for more than a decade, and this move gives us room to imagine what’s next: a more connected, creative and inclusive space for entrepreneurs of all kinds.”

Today, American Tobacco Campus is a vibrant live, work, play destination in the heart of downtown Durham—a cultural landmark and the modern workplace of global corporations, local businesses, and the area’s top talent. AU’s return builds on that momentum, bringing a new wave of innovators, creators and change makers to the campus community.

AU will retain its Market Street and Kress locations, totaling approximately 25,000 square feet on Main Street, while adding the new state-of-the-art space at ATC. Construction is expected to begin July 1st. AU@Main will remain open throughout the build, with members transitioning to the new space when complete.

The expansion reflects CBC Real Estate’s continued investment in Durham’s innovation ecosystem and builds on the long-standing support of Self-Help. Design and construction of the new AU space at ATC are being led by Little Diversified Architectural Consulting and Consigli.

The new AU space will be purpose-built to foster creative collisions and collaboration, with features including:

Open coworking and customizable offices

A botanical library and indoor garden

A secret outdoor garden

A fully equipped podcast studio

Meeting and collaboration rooms

Flexible memberships and leasing options for growing teams

Playful design elements that nod to AU’s history and Durham roots

AU will activate the space through a full calendar of curated events, panels, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities, in continued partnership with Google and Fidelity Center for Applied Technology (FCAT), and with local favorites like Fullsteam, Ment, and Boricua Soul. Located just steps from the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, DPAC, local restaurants and retail shops, AU’s new home will put members at the center of the action.

“We’re thrilled to bring American Underground back to the American Tobacco Campus,” said Eli Bell, Director of Leasing and Asset Management at CBC Real Estate. “AU is part of the ATC story and this return feels both natural and energizing. It’s a powerful moment of continuity that adds fresh energy to the community we’re continuing to build here.”

American Underground and American Tobacco Campus are both part of the CBC Real Estate family, a division of Capitol Broadcasting Company. Their shared history and commitment to fueling inclusive innovation are helping shape the next chapter of Durham’s economic growth.   

The new American Underground will be located at 324 Blackwell Street, Suite 900. For updates and more information, visit www.americanunderground.com.

Lutra Cafe and Bakery

The popular bakery known for its sweet and savory buns now sells at two farmers’ markets and pop-ups. Plans are to open at American Tobacco Campus by end of 2025.

Lutra Cafe and Bakery , the beloved Durham-based bakery known for its crave-worthy sweet and savory buns, will open a counter- service restaurant at American Tobacco Campus by the end of 2025.

Founded in Jan. 2024 by chef-owner Chris McLaurin, Lutra has built a loyal following through its presence at farmers markets, pop-ups and local coffee shops across the Triangle. Its permanent home will be a 2,600-square-foot location on the north side of American Tobacco Campus, adjacent to Ment Beverage Co., the production facility and tasting room for Honeygirl Meadery. Lutra will serve breakfast, lunch and baked goods for dine-in, patio seating or takeout.

“American Tobacco feels like the perfect home for Lutra. We’re so excited to be a part of their thoughtful and local mix of businesses,” said chef-owner Chris McLaurin. “Whether you’re

popping in for a quick treat, a to-go breakfast or want to enjoy yourself with a leisurely brunch, Lutra will be situated to easily meet your needs – and with lots of easy parking.”

A Chapel Hill native, McLaurin brings years of experience to the project. After graduating from George Washington University and training at L’Academie de Cuisine, he worked under chef Johnny Monis at acclaimed D.C. restaurants Komi and Little Serow. While McLaurin worked in the kitchen at Komi, Monis won Best Chef Mid-Atlantic from the James Beard Foundation and the restaurant maintained its No. 1 spot on Washingtonian Magazine’s Best Restaurants in D.C. At Little Serow, McLaurin worked as a host and learned how delicious food and professional but casual service can come together.

McLaurin returned to North Carolina in 2013 and worked at a number of popular Triangle restaurants and bars, including Rose’s, Bar Lusconi, Picnic, and La Place. In 2022, he was named chef de cuisine at Poole’side Pies, part of two-time James Beard award-winning chef Ashley Christensen’s celebrated Raleigh restaurant group. Following Poole-side Pies’ closure in late 2023, McLaurin launched Lutra Bakery and quickly gained momentum, selling baked goods at the Cary and North Durham farmers’ markets, as well as regular Durham pop-ups at Cocoa Cinnamon and Sunday Bunday events at Queeny’s. In its first year, Lutra sold more than 10,000 buns and hosted over 130 pop-ups across the region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Lutra Cafe and Bakery to the American Tobacco Campus,” said Eli Bell, CBC Real Estate’s Director of Leasing & Asset Management. “Lutra built a real following through their pop-ups and quickly became a local favorite—it feels like bringing in a friend the whole neighborhood already loves. Their creativity and energy are a perfect match for ATC, and we know folks will be lining up bright and early for coffee and those unforgettable buns.“

At the new cafe, guests can expect a rotating menu of baked goods—including buns, breads, and soft pretzels—as well as breakfast and lunch offerings like biscuits and gravy, eggs Benedict, salads, and sandwiches. “At Lutra, we’re looking to create a space with craveable food that fosters genuine connection in a casual atmosphere,” McLaurin said.

Lutra Cafe and Bakery will be located at 312 Blackwell St., Noell Building #102, Durham. For updates and more information, follow on Instagram at @lutrabakery or at https://www.lutrabakery.com/.

BOOM Club Announces Pop-Up Synthesizer Clubhouse at American Tobacco Campus

Electronic Music Collective Brings Hands-On Experiences, Workshops, and Performances to the Rail Car

BOOM Club, a new Arts Organization dedicated to providing resources for electronic musicians, is excited to announce the launch of its pop-up Synthesizer Clubhouse at the Rail Car–a historic train car at American Tobacco Campus, reimagined as a unique space for sound, creativity and community. Open every weekend from May through July, the Clubhouse will provide a hands-on space for music lovers to explore high-quality electronic music instruments, participate in free workshops, and enjoy live performances from local and visiting artists.

“We’re thrilled to create a space where musicians of all skill levels and backgrounds can experiment, learn, and connect,” said Nick Williams, Director of BOOM Club. “Electronic music should be accessible and inclusive, and we can’t wait to share our passion for this vibrant art form with the community.”

Featured Performers and Speakers include:

  • Maria Chavez – Peruvian born/NYC based sound artist and turntablist
  • Matthew Cha – Modular synth virtuoso deeply versed in techno and jazz
  • James Phillips – multi-instrumentalist, recording engineer, and member of local band Bombadil
  • Cole Pulice – Experimental Saxophonist and Electroacoustic composer
  • Suzi Analogue – Expert beatmaker and UNC Music Luminary

A full program schedule and lineup will be announced soon, but weekend visitors can expect a mix of activities and performances.

Weekend Highlights include:

  • Synthesizer Exploration Stations – Try out a variety of synthesizers and music production gear
  • Free Workshops – Learn synthesis, beat-making, and live performance techniques from expert artists
  • Live Performances – Experience electronic music performances by innovative local and guest musicians

“We’re proud to host BOOM Club’s Synthesizer Clubhouse at the American Tobacco Campus,” said Michael Goodmon, Senior Executive Vice President of Capitol Broadcasting. “This is exactly the kind of creative, community-forward programming we love to support—hands-on, inclusive, and a little outside the box.”

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or simply curious about electronic music, BOOM Club is the perfect place to explore, create and connect. For more information and updates on workshops and performances, visit www.boom-club.org and @_boomclub

About BOOM Club:

BOOM Club is a Durham-based arts organization dedicated to making electronic music accessible to all. Through workshops, performances, and hands-on experiences, BOOM Club provides the community with the tools and inspiration to explore the world of electronic sound.


Studio Spotlight: Yoga Off East

Manduka Mag – March 12, 2025

“Nestled in the historic American Tobacco Campus, Yoga Off East has become a haven for the Durham community, offering a serene and welcoming space to practice yoga. The studio, co-owned by Kathryn Smith and Kim Tupper, focuses on creating a supportive and peaceful environment where students can cultivate a deeper sense of connection and well-being. A modern yoga studio rooted in ancient traditions, Yoga Off East embraces its identity as an “East to West” studio, offering modern yoga deeply influenced by ancient Eastern practices.”

READ MORE

Love Lock Lane at American Tobacco

Now through April 10

Reminiscent of popular Love Lock Bridges that can be found across the globe. Bring a lock as a sign of your love or commitment to leave at the fence by the Power Plant building and support a small business on Campus before or afterward.

Participating small businesses on Campus that have locks available are:

Yoga Off East – Nana Steak – Seraphine – Parker and Otis

Follow the instructions on the fence banner and post your social media photo to show your LOVE for Durham! #lovedurhamnc

For more information on all the Discover Durham “Love Durham” activations, click HERE.

New Beginnings for Fullsteam Brewery at American Tobacco Campus

9,000-square-foot taproom, set between iconic water tower and smokestack, promises a lively new social hub in downtown Durham

Durham, NC – September 4, 2024  Fullsteam Brewery, a pioneer in Durham’s craft beer scene, and CBC Real Estate are excited to announce the opening of Fullsteam’s new taproom at the American Tobacco Campus (ATC). Occupying approximately 9,000 square feet on the first floor of the historic Power Plant, located between ATC’s iconic water tower and smokestack, this move marks a significant new chapter for Fullsteam.

The new Fullsteam taproom at American Tobacco will feature a welcoming entrance, with a restaurant on one side and a casual bar on the other, creating both indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for gathering before a show at DPAC or after a Durham Bulls game. The thoughtfully designed space will include a pilot brewing system, a small stage for live performances, and a private party area. Guests can look forward to an upgraded experience complete with access to parking and a full HVAC system. Fullsteam will also introduce a new food concept, with more details to be announced soon.

“We’re so excited to get to work on our Durham forever home,” said Sean Lilly Wilson, Founder of Fullsteam Brewery. “The Goodmon family, CBC Real Estate, and the amazing array of local tenants have all been incredibly supportive of our move to the American Tobacco Campus. We can’t wait to contribute to the vibrancy and community that’s emerging here in historic downtown Durham.”

Fullsteam’s move to ATC highlights a shared commitment to Durham’s future. This partnership underscores a mutual dedication to innovation, creativity, and long-term growth. Fullsteam’s presence will bring fresh energy to ATC, enriching its diverse mix of businesses and attractions.

“We’re proud to welcome Fullsteam Brewery to the American Tobacco Campus,” said Pete McClure, General Manager of American Tobacco Campus. “Their dedication to community aligns perfectly with our mission. We anticipate their new taproom will quickly become the social hub of our campus, a lively watering hole for tenants and visitors alike.”

The new taproom is expected to take about a year to build out. During this period, Fullsteam will keep the community engaged through social media updates, pop-up events, and tours of the new space.

Fullsteam will wind down operations at its current Rigsbee Avenue location on October 31. In the meantime, Fullsteam will continue brewing beer and serving customers at its Boxyard RTP location. Production will eventually shift to Fortnight Brewing Company in Cary, NC, enabling Fullsteam to scale its operations and meet growing demand.

Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting Fullsteam’s website at fullsteam.ag/ATC.

Yoga Off East Finds New Home at American Tobacco Campus

Studio to Offer Infrared Heated Classes and Yoga for Kids in a Larger, Community-Focused Space.

Yoga Off East is thrilled to announce its expansion and relocation from 9th Street to the American Tobacco Campus this fall. The move marks a significant milestone as the studio grows and enriches its offerings for the Durham yoga community.

Located at 324 Blackwell Street, Suite 420, above Parker & Otis, the 2,300-square-foot space will accommodate 40 mats, nearly tripling its current class size capacity. The new location will be the yoga studio’s third home in Durham. Founder and Duke alum Kathryn Smith opened Yoga Off East in a 400-square-foot space in the back of 9th Street’s Happy & Hale in 2016 before moving to its current location across the street in 2019.

With this move, Smith is teaming up with friend and fellow teacher Kim Tupper (who completed her 200-hour teacher training at Yoga Off East!) to co-own the studio. The duo will both teach regularly. With thoughtfully designed spaces like a tea bar and space to read, Smith and Tupper hope to create an intentional and inviting space for its community to mingle and connect before and after class.

“Our community of students and teachers has grown and it’s clear that having more space in and around the studio will elevate the Yoga Off East experience for all,” says Smith. “We are so energized by this expansion and look forward to inviting new and existing students to practice with us.”

Beyond regular classes, Yoga Off East will continue to offer monthly workshops, events and an annual teacher training. The new studio will also feature ceiling-mounted infrared heat panels for use in some weekly classes.

“This relocation represents more than just a physical move,” says Tupper. “Kathryn has built such an intentional community with her studio, and I am so grateful to partner with her as we take Yoga Off East into its next chapter.”

Pete McClure, CBC Real Estate’s Senior General Manager of American Tobacco Campus, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition: “We are thrilled to welcome Yoga Off East to the American Tobacco Campus. Their commitment to wellness and community aligns perfectly with our vision for ATC. This new studio will be a wonderful addition for everyone here.”

Design partners include interior designer Kate Haynes of Noble Interiors and creative director Cait Wharton of Studio Millie. Amanda Giacomini of Ten Thousand Buddhas will paint a Buddha wall in blue hues at the new studio, continuing the tradition from the 9th Street location.

On the design, Haynes says, “Our design team found inspiration from the concept of balancing the weight of the existing architecture and the rounding essence of the old building, infusing it with a sense of lightness and movement. From the outset, we envisioned incorporating lots of white and accentuating the serene palette with vibrant, airy blues to energize the space.

Further details on the grand opening will be announced at a later date. Classes will continue in Yoga Off East’s current space until the opening. Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting www.yogaoffeast.com or visiting Yoga Off East on Instagram.

20 Years of ATC! Join the celebration.

Twenty years—can you believe it? Two decades ago, the American Tobacco Campus began with the revival of the old tobacco warehouses that stood vacant in downtown Durham for many years.  From neglected buildings to bustling offices, restaurants, and public spaces, the transformation of ATC is a testament to the power of community. None of this would have been possible without the people who bring ATC to life every day–visitors, workers, and residents. 

Reflecting on the past 20 years, we think of the first Tower Lighting that started a Durham tradition, the six times the Durham Bulls clinched the national championship right here at DBAP, the birth of American Underground and many startups to follow, the concerts on the lawn that brought us together–and that time we turned The Cage into a skating rink. These moments are what makes ATC so special.

ATC’s story is one of shared vision and a love for Durham. We’re excited to celebrate this history and we want to hear from you! Share your favorite ATC memory with us, whether it’s a special connection, an exciting event, or a personal accomplishment. Click here to tell your story and let us feature your memories throughout our 20th-anniversary celebration.

We’ve accomplished so much together, and the best is yet to come! Join us in celebrating the American Tobacco Campus–cheers to 20 more years.

MilkShake Factory Shakes Things Up with First North Carolina Location

More Sweet News for Durham and the American Tobacco Campus.

MilkShake Factory is delighted to announce its newest store at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham, marking its first venture into North Carolina. Originating in Pittsburgh, MilkShake Factory has established itself as the go-to neighborhood dessert destination, renowned for its housemade ice cream, handspun milkshakes, and premium chocolates.

Founded by fourth-generation chocolatiers, MilkShake Factory boasts a rich history dating back to 1914. Their dedication to quality is highlighted in their signature milkshake menu featuring Chocolate Dipped Strawberry, Campfire S’mores, and Bananas Foster, alongside MilkShake Factory’s housemade chocolate barks including Cookie, S’mores, or Peanut Butter Toffee.

In 2023, MilkShake Factory announced its expansion through franchising, attracting enthusiastic entrepreneurs like Alex Chandler and Kindall Palmer, residents of Raleigh and now proud franchise owners. “We knew immediately that Downtown Durham would be the perfect
location for the first store in North Carolina,” say Chandler and Palmer. “Durham’s vibrant atmosphere and reputation for unique food concepts make it an ideal fit for MilkShake Factory. The American Tobacco Campus, with its bustling activity, is the perfect setting for our delicious
milkshakes to become a staple sweet treat for locals and visitors alike.”

MilkShake Factory promises to be the go-to spot for milkshake enthusiasts and dessert aficionados alike, offering a classic and cozy atmosphere complemented by friendly staff. Whether patrons are celebrating a special occasion, catching up with loved ones, or simply treating themselves to a sweet indulgence, MilkShake Factory ensures each visit is both memorable and delicious.

“We’re thrilled to welcome MilkShake Factory to the American Tobacco Campus–and Durham, North Carolina,” Mark Stanford, Vice President of Real Estate at CBC Real Estate remarked. ‘This community loves sweet treats and we look forward to seeing the joy and connections their
space will bring.’

Details regarding the Grand Opening of the store at 359 Blackwell St, Suite #120 will be announced soon, with plans to welcome customers this summer. Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting www.milkshakefactory.com, following MilkShake Factory on social media or emailing the team at downtowndurham@milkshakefactory.com.

Get ready, Durham, because life is about to get a lot sweeter.

A New Era of Entertainment at ATC–State of Golf

Downtown Durham’s First Multisport Simulator Bar to Open in May 2024

The American Tobacco Campus is thrilled to welcome State of Golf, an innovative multisport simulator bar, coming to downtown Durham in May 2024. This state-of-the-art venue integrates Full Swing Golf’s advanced technology, offering an immersive experience that allows guests to play virtual golf on the world’s most prestigious courses, as well as enjoy 30 other dynamic sports simulations, including baseball and soccer. State of Golf caters to a diverse audience, offering friends, families, teams, and companies a unique setting for bonding, informal meetings, and celebrations. Situated in close proximity to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park on Blackwell Street, State of Golf aims to be the go-to destination for game day gatherings.

Beyond sports, the venue will include a full-service bar with an extensive selection of beers, a carefully curated wine menu, and craft cocktails inspired by the iconic 19th hole. Though no food will be served on-site, guests are welcome to bring outside food, and plans are in place to partner with local food vendors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their favorite meals and snacks while playing.

“We’re eager to bring this distinctive entertainment experience to the heart of Durham, offering a new venue for the community to gather, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories,” said Brandon Baker, owner of State of Golf. “Whether it’s sinking that winning putt, hitting a home run in baseball or scoring a goal in soccer, State of Golf is designed to appeal to sports enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.”

Mark Stanford, Vice President of Real Estate at CBC Real Estate, expressed enthusiasm for the latest addition to the American Tobacco Campus, noting, “State of Golf aligns perfectly with our commitment to combining our historic property with forward-thinking entertainment. This concept blends cutting-edge technology with the timeless appeal of sports and leisure and will be another great reason to visit the American Tobacco Campus.”


For further information and updates on the opening of State of Golf, visit www.stateofgolfnc.com.