1 minute read
Miami-Dade
from HOK Statehouse Qualifications
by HOK
Children’s Courthouse
Miami, Florida
4 LEED Gold
SIZE
378,000 sq. ft. / 35,100 sq. m.
COST
$93.8 Million
COMPLETION DATE
2015
SERVICES
Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Planning + Urban Design, Sustainable Design
This downtown Miami building combines juvenile and family courts in a non-traditional, welcoming environment. Designed to minimize stress for children and families, the 14-story building houses 18 courtrooms and 16 supporting agencies, making it easy for families to access services in one central location.
The team attempted to create the best possible experience for people who need to use this building. Five floors are flexible to support the county’s changing needs. Three floors offer families storefront locations for key support agencies. Agile courtrooms and technologies accommodate different case types.
The bright, spacious interiors communicate respect and warmth toward the children and their families. Daylit corridors and generous common spaces display public art. Several large-scale murals and tile installations feature portraits created by students.
As part of providing a healthy environment, MiamiDade County wanted to integrate sustainability into the design. The LEED Gold building’s eastwest orientation minimizes solar heat gain from the tropical sun while offering spectacular views to Biscayne Bay and the city.
A provides shading. Multicolored glass windows create an ever-changing daylight experience in public waiting areas. At night, light from the interior creates a random pattern of primary colors across this south-facing “confetti wall.”
