GMK was retained by the SCDMH in early 2020 to complete a first-phase study of the existing Fewell Pavilion for conversion/ repurposing into a temporary COVID-19 isolation ward and quarantine space for nursing home patients from SCDMH and US Department of Veterans Affairs facilities across the state of South Carolina. The conversion is ultimately being financed through fiscal stimulus money made available in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Fewell Pavilion is an existing building at the CM Tucker Jr./Dowdy Gardener Nursing Care Facility in Columbia, SC. The existing facility is a single-story structure of approximately 45,684 gross square feet constructed in 1970. The facility is currently vacant, is in poor condition, and suffers from mold intrusion as well as asbestos contamination. The aging mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were last renovated over 27 years ago and are past their service life. The existing roof is also failing and does not meet applicable building codes.

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Based on the initial study, GMK determined that the renovation would require a full gutting of the existing building with appropriate mold and asbestos remediation, replacement of the MEP systems, and replacement of the roofing systems. The first phase of the project completed by GMK entailed a renovation study that included analysis of the existing structure and systems followed by the preparation of preliminary schematic planning floor plans/narratives and a schematic budget cost estimate for the conversion. These narratives and cost estimates were delivered to SCDMH in March of 2020 and provide a preliminary baseline for the design phases required for future renovations.

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In October of 2020, GMK was selected through competitive solicitation to complete the follow-on full design services and construction administration for the Pavilion. The agreed-upon scope of work entails utilizing the available square footage of the building for COVID-19 isolation and quarantine space, as well as related administrative functions. The design is being developed as required to meet SCDHEC licensing regulations, VA guidelines, NFPA 101 and IBC. The newly renovated building will be classified as an institutional occupancy (I2) as needed for the future use within the intended occupancy group. The building program includes an Isolation Wing with 18 Resident Rooms (all with ante rooms and private bathroom facilities per resident), a Quarantine Wing with 27 Resident Rooms (with a mixture of private and semi-private bathroom facilities), a Warehouse Wing and Administrative areas in the central core. All wings will also house all necessary support areas for staff as well as shared resident areas. GMK has completed the 35% schematic design submission phase and is on schedule for fast-track completion of the remaining design phases and construction.