Circuit Court of Cook County

Chicago, IL, United States

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Shildan LONGOTON Terracotta Rainscreen Panels

Circuit Court of Cook County

Chicago, IL, United States

Firm

Booth Hansen

Type

Government + Health › Court/Post Office

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2005

SIZE

100,000 sqft - 300,000 sqft

Adapted from a dilapidated warehouse into a cutting-edge yet comfortable facility, this new Circuit Courthouse provides a calming, peaceful, and dignified court experience, helping bring justice to cases of domestic violence.

To maximize use of the site and orient the building toward the city center, the rear was repositioned to become the front, requiring a new entrance lobby. The new façade—a terra-cotta tile and aluminum panel system employing state-of-the-art rain screen technology—was secured to vertical trusses, creating a soaring lobby. Building circulation separates disputing parties, helping to alleviate threats and intimidation that commonly accompany these proceedings. Additional support functions include a childcare facility with separate areas for infants, toddlers, and older children.