The design evolved through several concept sketches over many years as the client came to understand what was truly needed in this area, particularly regarding the use of existing facilities. Ultimately, it was decided to add two large courts, and a concept was proposed to extend above the two existing large courts. From this, a concept was generated, and sketch plans were developed.
This concept maintained the original symmetrical layout with a central public atrium, extending upwards to accommodate the two courts above it, with a centralized lift and staircase for all users. Access continued along this central route, effectively splitting the building into east and west staff offices, along with the car park. However, the magistrates have their own staircases at both ends of the building, including access from the car park below, one of which is equipped with a stair lift for disabled magistrates.
When we received the instruction to proceed with working drawings, we were informed to include only one additional court, with the possibility of adding the second court later. We decided to continue with the sketch design but omitted one court, knowing it could be added in the future, even though this resulted in an asymmetrical appearance.
Nevertheless, this building stands as an imposing feature on the landscape. Our approach was to make the structure as uplifting and people friendly as possible. Whereas the previous building was a bland face-brick structure, we opted for glazing and transparency to symbolize the justice that would take place here.
Reference to the original structure is retained, clearly distinguishing what is old from what is new, although the foundations were found inadequate to support the extra floors, necessitating the rebuilding of one court from the ground up. We used glass, galvanized steel, aluminium louvres, brick, glossy tiles, and stainless steel, along with wide flat roofs, skylights (originally redone), and roof lights to transform this building into something unique—hopefully an inspiring edifice for the community, a pleasant place to work, and a venue for justice.
The architectural language is modern and eclectic, with references to a timeless classical sense of law and order embodied in the triangulated gable, a heavy structure that seems “miraculously” supported by a glass façade but is actually anchored by solid steel. This design serves as a political statement and metaphor for the transformation that has taken place in our country.
noh ARCHITECTS 