Architect: HOK, New York City
Multimedia: Shen Milsom & Wilke
Size: 200,000 square feet
Completion: Fall 2006

This new judicial complex is designed to express the openness of the American judicial process. The public waiting area, for example, features all-glass spaces that offer a glimpse of the goings-on inside. Shen Milsom & Wilke supported the design goals with multimedia that helps streamline court proceedings.

The renovated complex includes 16 courtrooms and office support space for the District, Family, and Superior Courts, with each division occupying its own floor. The courtrooms are equipped with high-quality video and data display systems, and high-resolution projectors. Sound reinforcement systems and language translation networks make testimony clear.

Full control over these systems is possible from touch screens located at the judge’s bench, or clerk or attorney stations. Zoned-lighting systems, projection screens, and window shades may also be controlled here. The touch panels double as video/computer monitors when needed.

Three courtrooms, one on each of the courtroom floors, offer enhanced media systems for electronic evidence presentation. Remote-control cameras and sophisticated sound systems enable videoconferencing—useful when those testifying or arraigned from in remote locations.

The jury assembly room includes presentation equipment to facilitate juror orientation activities. A child testimony room is equipped for live transmission, taping, or documentation of legal testimony. The technology is discrete to prevent it from being a distraction or source of intimidation for the children.

A central multimedia control room supports advanced presentation and archival applications in the courtrooms and the child testimony room. All of the courtrooms are connected to this control room so that operators there may orchestrate presentations or take over the control responsibilities--in case the judge, lawyers, or clerk are unable to perform these functions.

To keep the public informed, digital signage is located outside courtrooms and in the corridors and lobbies. The information displays are created on a computer from a central office.

The project received a 2007 AIA Design Award.

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