Located within the City Centre Civic Precinct, this new 14-room courthouse will include Provincial and Supreme courtrooms, with flexibility for future expansion. Guided by the client’s values and vision for the project, WZMH’s design creates a dignified and timeless landmark in the Precinct – one that is respectful of its context while making a bold and iconic architectural statement. The siting of the building creates a ceremonial Courthouse Plaza for the Civic Precinct. To improve sustainability, the Building’s longest façade is oriented to the south and uses passive cooling strategies such as external shading devices and fritted glass.
The transparency of the main entrance and lobby makes it readily distinguishable as an important destination. The architectural expression of the dramatic two-storey lobby, including its monumental feature stair with wood screening, is designed to convey the importance and gravity of the courthouse’s activities. The simple palette of materials and abundant natural daylight in the lobby will help instill a sense of calm in visitors to the Facility. WZMH’s courtroom design creates a harmonious environment that exudes a sense of dignity and formality to support the values of the justice system.
Safety and security considerations are integral to the design throughout in order to facilitate effective monitoring and threat mitigation. WZMH Architects was part of the successful proponent team for the public private partnership competition of the Abbotsford Law Courts. Credits: - WZMH Architects - Project Manager - Rino Filippelli - WZMH Architects - Principal in Charge - Carl Blanchaer - WZMH Architects - Design Principal - Nicola Casciato
Located within the City Centre Civic Precinct, this new 14-room courthouse will include Provincial and Supreme courtrooms, with flexibility for future expansion. Guided by the client’s values and vision for the project, WZMH’s design creates a dignified and timeless landmark in the Precinct – one that is respectful of its context while making a bold and iconic architectural statement. The siting of the building creates a ceremonial Courthouse Plaza for the Civic Precinct. To improve sustainability, the Building’s longest façade is oriented to the south and uses passive cooling strategies such as external shading devices and fritted glass.
The transparency of the main entrance and lobby makes it readily distinguishable as an important destination. The architectural expression of the dramatic two-storey lobby, including its monumental feature stair with wood screening, is designed to convey the importance and gravity of the courthouse’s activities. The simple palette of materials and abundant natural daylight in the lobby will help instill a sense of calm in visitors to the Facility. WZMH’s courtroom design creates a harmonious environment that exudes a sense of dignity and formality to support the values of the justice system.
Safety and security considerations are integral to the design throughout in order to facilitate effective monitoring and threat mitigation. WZMH Architects was part of the successful proponent team for the public private partnership competition of the Abbotsford Law Courts. Credits: - WZMH Architects - Project Manager - Rino Filippelli - WZMH Architects - Principal in Charge - Carl Blanchaer - WZMH Architects - Design Principal - Nicola Casciato