University of North Carolina
Burnett-Womack Research Building
Chapel Hill, NC
The renovation of the nine-story, 180,000 sf Burnett-Womack Research Building focused on upgrading the facility to current laboratory standards, creating large open laboratories to promote interdisciplinary research among departments, and to provide medical education instructional space.
Built in 1970s, the existing outdated engineering systems were replaced and the building was brought up to meet current code requirements (including fire- and life-safety and ADA compliance). The areas for biomedical research were reorganized from small, compartmentalized units into open flexible laboratories with adaptable casework systems, utility distribution and other general improvements.
The renovation also included a 4,000 nsf BSL-3 vaccine development suite located on the top floor of the building for ease of exhaust and security reasons.