As part of its ongoing partnership with Will County, Wight & Company designed a new Coroner’s facility guided by goals focused on employee well-being, operational efficiency, and long-term viability. Given the long-standing need for the facility, the team emphasized careful planning to ensure it would serve the community for decades.

The building is sited on a vacant parcel near other County facilities, allowing connections to existing water and stormwater infrastructure and reducing site development costs. The 11,460 sf facility is organized into three primary zones—office, autopsy suite, and sally port—arranged to support staff workflows and site constraints.

Energy efficiency and sustainability were key priorities. The team used energy modeling to optimize daylighting while controlling glare, paired with durable materials and high-performance envelope systems to meet and exceed energy code requirements. Mechanical and electrical systems incorporate automated controls, demand-controlled ventilation, and energy-saving sensors.

Equally important, the facility prioritizes staff health and comfort through natural light, calming interiors, and shared break spaces, including access to an outdoor patio. The result is a resilient, efficient facility that supports both the technical demands of forensic work and the well-being of the Will County Coroner’s staff.

Photo Credit: Connor Steinkamp Photography