General Services Administration
Ashley U.S. Courthouse Annex and Modernization

HISTORICAL MEETS CONTEMPORARY

The exterior design of the Annex is deferential to the colors, materiality, and massing of the Ashley Courthouse, while pushing for a new contemporary language within the Civic Mall. The Annex respects the height of the historic courthouse by matching its cornice to that of the Ashley and setting back its two upper stories such that they do not visually compete with the original building. While the Annex façade has been carefully matched to the stone of the Ashley, the new courthouse employs a great deal more glass, bringing greater transparency to its halls of justice.

COURTROOM DESIGN

The design of the four district courtrooms in the Annex is a departure from traditional courtroom design as well. These rooms feature translucent glazing along one wall that brings in natural daylighting while still providing visual and acoustical privacy to the proceedings. Additionally the courtrooms feature a free-standing witness stand, which ensures a clear distinction between the roles of witnesses, the judge and other court officials, all while providing ideal sight lines for the jury and gathered audience.

THE GLASS PORCH

The “Glass Porch” of the Annex along Spielbusch Avenue boasts a double-height atrium highlighting the entrances to three District Judge Courts and one Magistrate Judge Court. This choice to open up the building to those viewing from the street is an intentional departure from centuries of traditional courthouse design. By removing the impenetrable walls at the front of the courthouse, the design allows for a great deal of light to come into the entry, bringing a sense of warmth and transparency to an important civic space. In this new Annex, justice truly is on display to all.