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)

• Size: 17,000 square feet, 3.0 acre site

• Services: complete architectural/engineering design (including equipment planning/coordination), bidding, construction administration, and commissioning

• 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.

• Objectives: Mecklenburg County has made a commitment to sustainability, and the design achieved a LEED gold certification.

• 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"