Expansion plans include the addition of 100 luxurious guest rooms and suites, the Inn�s new state-of-the-art Executive Conference Center, and a new grand ballroom seating up to 600. These enhancements will further define the Inn as an ideal location for successful business conferences and meetings, weddings, and other special events. The highly acclaimed Fairview Restaurant will be relocated to its new and expanded facilities and will include excellent golf course views and outdoor dining. An indoor swimming pool, expanded fitness facility, and new golf shop and golf education facility will also be added. The official groundbreaking ceremony marking this momentous occasion is scheduled for Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 12:00 noon.

Approved earlier this year by Duke�s Board of Trustees, the expansion and renovation of the Inn is viewed as a sound investment for the future and in the University itself. �We are very excited about the renovation and expansion of the facilities at the Washington Duke Inn,� states Dr. Tallman Trask III, Executive Vice President, Duke University. �This investment will allow the hotel to serve the growing needs of our guests, local residents, businesses and Duke University alike and do so with style and grace.�

To execute its ambitious expansion and renovation plans the Inn has assembled an extraordinary team of professionals. The renowned architect Bob Rasche, of Rabun Hogan Ota Rasche Architects, Atlanta, GA was selected for his expertise in hotel and conference center projects. To work with its interior spaces, the Inn has chosen Sue Firestone, interior designer with SFA Design of Santa Barbara, CA. Known for award-winning and innovative hospitality designs, SFA Designs has transformed the interiors of some of the most magnificent hotel and conference centers in the United States. The general contractor J. W. Grand, Inc., Raleigh, NC will manage the project.

Although the renovation and expansion will transform the hotel, the project team has taken great care to maintain the Inn�s refined, yet inviting ambience. �We are excited about the Inn�s expansion and building upon our tradition of excellent service,� says General Manager, Don T. DeFeo. �We will be able to offer our guests the finest in professional meeting and conferencing spaces plus the social and leisure amenities that will serve Duke University and the entire community for years to come.�    

Named for Washington Duke (1820-1905), noted industrialist, philanthropist, and benefactor of Duke University, the Inn maintains proud connections with the Duke family. Built in the style of an old English country inn, the hotel lobby and hallways are graced with Duke family treasures and art. The Inn's crest, recognized as a symbol of quality and excellence, shares elements with the Duke family coat of arms. 

Only twenty minutes from Raleigh-Durham International Airport and ten minutes from Research Triangle Park, the current Inn features 171 elegantly-appointed guest rooms and suites, the AAA Four Diamond Fairview Restaurant, the Bull Durham Lounge and superb meeting facilities for groups from 20 to 400. 

The Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club is located on the campus of Duke University and is the only AAA Four Diamond hotel in Durham. Nestled on 300 acres filled with tall pines and hardwoods, the Inn is known for its beautiful facility and grounds, marvelous cuisine, 18-hole championship golf course, and convenience to local points of interest. It is set apart from other area hotels and conference centers by its unparalleled service, gracious staff, luxurious interiors and attention to detail. The Inn is owned by Duke University and is managed by The Continental Companies of Miami, Florida.  For more information or reservations call 919.490.0999 or 800.443.3853, or visit www.washingtondukeinn.com.