Courthouses face unique safety and security challenges due to their high-profile nature and the sensitive proceedings that take place within them. A critical component of courthouse planning is prioritizing the safety of all occupants—judges, staff, jurors, litigants, and the public. 

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed the judicial system and courthouse planning. Court administrators often ask which operational changes from the pandemic are still in use and how they affect space requirements for new courthouses. During the crisis, courts focused on administering justice...

The criminal justice system has historically been punitive, primarily focusing on holding offenders accountable for their crimes. However, there is an increasing recognition of the limitations of traditional justice processes. 

Courthouse design is more than architectural aesthetics or functional layouts—it plays a powerful role in shaping the experiences of those who enter, especially jurors. As I recently discovered during my time on jury duty, the design of these spaces can influence everything from a juror’s comfort...

A domestic abuse survivor enters the courthouse and immediately feels overwhelmed by the harsh fluorescent lighting and echoing corridors. The crowded, open waiting area forces her to sit near strangers, causing her anxiety to spike as she has no sense of privacy or control. With confusing signage...