I recently received a comment on my Justice in the Dark post regarding natural light, which helps to create a more pleasant environment in a courtroom while also reducing energy costs. I briefly responded that I couldn’t agree more! Now, let me take the opportunity to elaborate.

In my previous articles on courtroom layout options, I have addressed such issues as sightlines, furniture options, and access requirements. My focus in this post will be on the core element of the courtroom: the location of the judge's bench.

In my last blog concerning courthouse accessibility, I discussed the challenge of reconciling accessibility requirements with historic preservation objectives at the main courthouse entrance. Today, I’m approaching a topic that is an even greater challenge for court planners and architects: the...

Green Building objectives (along with certification processes like LEED) can benefit both the environment and the individual court when applied to a courtroom renovation project. Sustainable building practices relating to a courthouse may fall into several general categories, including the...

Visibility in the courtroom is vital for all participants and spectators. Low courtroom lighting can cause visibility problems; overly bright lighting (or the wrong types of lights) can cause glare. The ability to see the body language and facial expressions of courtroom participants, such as the...