The Tennessee Bureau of Investigations for eastern Tennessee recently moved into a new headquarters. The group wanted one building to meet its current pragmatic needs and that also could be expanded as the bureau’s requirements change. The new facility is a one-story, 40,000-square-foot (3,716-m2) structure with a central circulation spine that includes a clerestory to introduce daylighting into the heart of the building. The central spine separates the two primary functions of the building—forensics laboratory and field office. The building houses state-of-the-art forensic laboratories and related facilities for drug chemistry analysis, DNA and serology, toxicology, breath alcohol testing and field investigation units.
According to Thomas J. Rinehart, AIA, CCS, CCCA, NCARB, of Lewis Group Architects, the nature of this building created some challenges. “The extensive laboratory space, with the attendant laboratory hood and biological safety cabinet requirements, mandated that special attention be given to the design of the mechanical systems.”
Lewis Group selected a variety of metal panels from ATAS International Inc. for this building to accent the predominantly brick exterior. Rinehart noted the metal panels add a clean, high-tech look that mimics the long horizontals of the curtainwall system.
All in a Silversmith color, the project includes 496 square feet (46 m2) of 24-gauge steel Multi-Purpose Panels (MPV080); 2,864 square feet (266 m2) of 24-gauge steel Multi-Purpose Panels (MPN080); 108 square feet (10 m2) of 24-gauge steel Multi-Purpose Panels (MPH080); and 1,913 square feet (178 m2) of 0.032-aluminum Linear Ceiling panels (LCB738).
Although this isn’t a LEED certified building, the Lewis Group focused on resource conservation and incorporated sustainable materials with low VOCs and recycled content into the building.
General contractor: Rouse Construction Co., Knoxville
Architect: Lewis Group Architects, Knoxville
Builder: Ralph Davis Construction, Nashville, Tenn.
Distributor: Insulation Systems Inc., Charlotte, N.C.
Metal wall panels: ATAS International Inc., Allentown, Pa., www.atas.com
