
A N G E L O
A R C H I T E C T S, P L L C
Medical Examiner
Mecklenburg County Medical Examiners Facility




Owner: Mecklenburg County Real Estate Services
Location: Charlotte, NC
Completed construction/Occupancy: December 2008
Schedule: design 7/06 to 7/07, bid/construction 8/07 to 11/08
Cost: estimated and actual, $8.0 million (includes equipment)
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Size: 17,000 square feet, 3.0 acre site
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Services: complete architectural/engineering design (including equipment planning/coordination), bidding, construction administration, and commissioning
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Design approach: the new medical examiner facility must be functional for the doctors and staff, as well as a safe environment for all occupants. The building is designed around a central courtyard, separating the autopsy functions from the administrative functions. The buildings are connected with corridors on 2 sides, and have bio-vestibules prior to entering the main autopsy functions.
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Objectives: Mecklenburg County has made a commitment to sustainability, and the design achieved a LEED gold certification.
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Challenges/Resolutions: To best address the mechanical system for the autopsy suite, 100% outside air is designed for the air handler, and 100% exhaust is provided. The air handler incorporates a sophisticated ‘heat wheel’ recovery system, which captures energy from the exhaust air.
Summary: The facility is filled with natural light from mainly north and south facing high performance clear windows, including a large clerestory window in the main autopsy suite. The building has a unique, civic design at the exterior, yet is very functional and secure for staff at the interior.
Article: Charlotte Business Journal-"New Mecklenburg County morgue built to satisfy stiff standards"
Project Team
Civil/Landscape: Site Solutions, PA
Structural: Moore Lindner Engineering
Mechanical: Allied Consulting Engineers
Plumb/Fire Protection: Shultz Associates
Interior Designer: Fryday & Doyne
LEED: Scope Architectural Consulting
Commissioning: Commissioning WorCx
Equipment Planner: Gizmogear Associates
