Substantial additions to historic buildings often diminish the presence of the original architecture. In the Renfrew County Courthouse project, the new work enhances the 1860’s landmark courthouse and reveals aspects of the adjacent historic registry and jail. Two deferential wings are set back on either side of the restored courthouse, reinforcing its prominence along the main street. The new forecourt landscape focuses on the now ceremonial door of the historic courthouse, while a new main entrance, required to address security and barrier free needs, is created to the side. The entry leads into a two-storey light-filled atrium which wraps the original courthouse, exposing the previously concealed jail, and presenting these weathered stone buildings in contrast to the contemporary materials and detailing of the new space. Where possible, the original spaces, such as the restored heritage courtroom, maintain their initial purposes. Others are given new lives: cells are reused as interview rooms; the registry building is reused as a law library, and its front façade becomes an artifact displayed within the two-storey lawyer’s lounge. The original jail walls are exposed in several courtrooms and reappear in the holding areas and other back of house spaces. The interplay of old and new elements embodies not only the weight of history and precedent attached to Ontario’s judicial system but also the concept of law as a living entity—something that has evolved over centuries, a reflection of the values of the society it serves and governs.
AWARDS:
2009 - Ontario Association of Architects, Award of Design and Excellence;
2009 - Ontario Association of Architects, People’s Choice Award; 2009 - The Office Building of the Year (TOBY), Historical Category, Building Owners & Managers (BOMA);
2008 - Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario, Award of Merit - Collaborative;
2006 - American Institute of Architects, Academy of Architecture for Justice, Award of Merit.;
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