Designed to look like a classic courthouse from the early 1900s, the new Anniston federal courthouse supports the programmatic and technical needs of today’s judiciary, while meeting the local community’s request for traditional architecture. Inside, modern spaces house federal agencies and their diverse security needs—including the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, U.S. District Court, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Attorney, U.S. Probation, and General Services Administration.
For the new building, we drew inspiration from the nearby 1906 courthouse it replaces, honoring the neighborhood and blending with Old Town Anniston, while still creating a new and distinct structure. The most noticeable connection between old and new is the exterior. The new courthouse mirrors the historic building’s window proportions and placement, decorative cornices, and rustic columns. The façade is pre-cast concrete manufactured to look like white Alabama marble, mimicking the original building’s appearance while saving on material costs.
The new courthouse is comprised of two pavilions, each containing a courtroom and support spaces. Natural light flows into courtrooms through large windows, creating a welcoming environment. The public enters through a large lobby. Its double volume emphasizes the court’s scale and importance, while clear wayfinding directs visitors to the gallery corridor, elevators, and stairs. The straight-forward circulation strategy visually connects building elements for the public and provides the U.S. Marshals with a secure, easily monitored corridor.
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