Jacksonville Humane Society

Community Animal Hospital

Challenge

In April, 2007, the Jacksonville Humane Society (JHS) suffered a devastating fire that killed many animals and destroyed a large portion of their operations. As the need for rebuilding was evident, JHS took this as an opportunity to re-invent itself with a long term goal of becoming a complete Animal Resource Center. Bacon Group Architecture participated in the early strategy planning and helped the team set goals that included replacing the remaining aging facilities, rebranding to increase public awareness, and expanding their available services.

Results

Bacon Group Architecture created an efficient, secure public lobby that visually connects to the exterior wooded site. Natural lighting reduces energy consumption and promotes animal health and human comfort. Durable finishes include resinous flooring, porcelain tile, laminated panels, anti-microbial quartz counter tops, and stainless steel equipment. Since the hospital opened JHS has achieved a 78% drop in its euthanasia rate, a 76% or higher animal save rate and attracted $470,000 in grants to fund free spay/neuter surgeries and medical interventions.

Jacksonville Humane Society Fast Facts

LOCATION: Jacksonville, FL

YEAR COMPLETED: 2011

ROLE: Architect of Record and Project Manager

COST: $2.38 million

SQUARE FOOTAGE: 6,505 SF

CAPACITY: High-volume spay/neuter surgery, 4 exam rooms, diagnostic and dental services

PROJECT OVERVIEW: After a devastating fire, Bacon Group helped the Jacksonville Humane Society replace aging facilities, rebrand to increase public awareness, and expand their available services.

We knew we had to find an architect who could help us through the process…. Immediately upon joining the team, Bacon Group made a major impact. Your knowledge of these facilities and their systems gave everyone a sense of comfort and allowed for a smooth, expeditious process.

Matthew D. Welch, President & COO, Elkins Constructors, Inc., Construction Manager for the project

Jacksonville Humane Society Awards & Recognition

Best Projects 2012 Engineering News-Record Southeast, Jacksonville Humane Society Community Animal Hospital, Jacksonville, FL, Award of Merit for Best Small Project.

First Place Excellence in Construction Award, Jacksonville Humane Society, Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. Florida First Coast Chapter, Jacksonville, FL.

Coolest Office Spaces, Jacksonville Humane Society Community Animal Hospital, The Jacksonville Business Journal, Healthcare Runner Up.