In your endeavors to redesign the courthouse, you might end up talking to architects or hear phrases that are commonly used in architecture. This guide gives you an overview of the most common keywords, their importance and examples so that you are well equipped during design and architecture conversations.
| Term | Definition | Importance | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | The designated function of any given space determined by use; can change or be redistributed. For example, courthouse elements of program might include courtrooms, law libraries, resource centers, lobbies and waiting areas, offices, among many others. | Efficiency: Architects often make use of “program diagrams” to visually map out all different spaces in a building and understand their relationships to one another. Understanding these adjacencies is important for efficient organization of space and how it is routinely used. |  |
| Circulation | The ways in which people navigate around a building, as well as to the square footage required for these purposes. Elements of circulation include, but are not limited to, hallways, stairs, and elevators. | Accessibility: Everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive ability, should be able to navigate through the building quickly, easily, and without undue stress to get where they need to go. Security: Courthouses have very specific security and privacy concerns. It is imperative in many situations that different parties do not come into contact with each other before entering a courtroom. Considering circulation will ensure that there are safe and separate paths for people to take. |  |
| Materiality | “Materiality” refers to any of the materials a building is made of, especially those that are exposed to occupants of the building. There are infinite expressions of materiality but common materials include concrete, wood, steel. | Psychological and emotional impact: Materiality can have a big impact on psychology. Think how cold and impersonal concrete can feel, while different varieties of wood can offer warmth, professionalism, etc. Some materials are used for their specific properties, including noise dampening, thermal mass (how well they retain heat), waterproofing, etc. |  |
So you’re ready to work with an architect – here are some tips:
Selecting an architect:
Consider if you want to work with an architect who specializes in and has previous experience with courthouses, or whether you want someone with a diverse portfolio
Before your first meeting:
- Timeline and logistics
- What is a realistic timeline for the project and how much can you be available to participate in the process?
- Budget
- What is your budget? How do you want to prioritize it?
- Design
- If the architect doesn’t have much experience designing courthouses, make sure that they understand in depth the specifics
- What do people who use the building need and want? How are you going to communicate this to the architect?
- Do you have any sources of inspiration that you want to show the architect?
Questions to ask your architect:
- Timeline and logistics –
- “Can you outline the timeline and stages of the project?”
- “Which stages do you need me to be involved with and in what capacity?”
- “Who will I be working with and when will I hear from them?”
- “Do you have preferred contractors/subcontractors?”
- “What project management services do you provide?”
- Budget –
- “What is included in the service fees?”
- “How do you structure your fees?”
- “How much flexibility
- Design –
- “What ideas do you have for this project?”
Helpful tips:
- Ask for clarification on any words you don’t understand. Architects tend to use a lot of jargon
- Don’t be afraid to talk about your budget and get as specific as you need to about how much you want to spend where. This entails you understanding your own priorities, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
- Look at buildings and other design work that you admire and have images of it ready to show the architect.
- Understand if your visions are aligned by looking at the architect’s previous work (look at their portfolio or website).
- Take notes during meetings to understand:
- Specific actions and decisions
- Outstanding questions
- Details about budget, timescale and project management
- Ideas you want to explore or incorporated into proposed designs
- Consider adaptive reuse vs. a completely new building
- Remember that renderings are meant to convey the experience of what the building could be like but might not end up matching end product exactly