The one-story, 1,700-square-foot maintenance building is used as a garage and storage for parts and equipment for the Knox County Engineering Department. The facility is located in historic downtown Mount Vernon.

In the planning and design phases, this project included:

• Preparation of site layout alternatives
• Preliminary code research
• Preparation of site plans including final site layout
• Grading plan and utility plan
• Contacting local agencies to obtain regulations

The final maintenance building design incorporates three service bays, one drive-through wash bay, and an additional work area. The floor of the building is equipped with an under-slab radiant heating system. This type of heating system is a more energy-efficient and sustainable alternative for a maintenance building. Additionally, it creates a more comfortable work environment for employees.

The biggest design challenge was to ensure the Knox County maintenance building matched the look and feel of downtown Mount Vernon. To align with the rich, historical architectural heritage of the downtown area, the team carefully assimilated the utilitarian-style maintenance building.

Special design considerations were made to ensure the facility respected the architectural style of the surrounding area. The design team carefully studied the architectural fabric of the area and incorporated design elements into the maintenance facility, blending the building into its historic surrounding.

The exterior design of the new maintenance facility is carriage-house style. Strategically blending the utilitarian building into the surrounding historic, downtown architecture. This style utilizes masonry, stone veneer, and painted composite siding.