Exploring the challenge

A building of this nature needs to perform a very important
symbolic function in respect to the position and history of Australia’s democratic system. The design of the complex needed to respect
the status of four jurisdictions namely the High Court, Federal Court, Family Court and Federal Magistrates’ Court, while at the same time presenting
a unified whole.

It was important for the architectural design and functions to
respond to the central issue of the Australian law being continually adjusted to reflect changes in our society. The law court is expected to uphold the law, to demonstrate independence and to reflect the sovereignty of the people. The public need to feel welcome rather than intimidated. Accountability and transparency were key characteristics as was accessibility within the design.

      An innovative response

It is vital that the architecture and interior design establish a symbolism and functionality appropriate for this significant type
of building. The dignity of the building speaks of its importance
yet it also allows its users and occupants to go about their business
as calmly and efficiently as possible. It is easy to understand,
it reveals itself
and encourages the public to witness the work
of the courts. The design embodies an egalitarian expression
of civic pride, and provides a physical expression of a diverse
yet united Australian culture.

      An individual approach

The design reflects a uniquely South Australian identity and
strongly relates to its site and context on Victoria Square; the
centre of the city’s court and legal precinct. Consistent with the
aims of accessibility, the building is flexible, efficient and functional providing a safe and refreshing environment for all occupants,
users and visitors.

Opportunities for natural light and external views of the Adelaide
Hills, Gulf St Vincent and the central business district are shared
by all through the use of atria and windows to every courtroom – replacing the traditional introverted courtroom with a new generation of extroverted spaces. The optimum use of these qualities contributes to the effect of transparency and clarity, offering a sense of calm and providing an atmosphere that enables long periods of concentration without tension. The architectural response facilitates collegiality
and good working relationships and provides for the needs of litigants and other users.

      Definition in detail

The thoughtful approach that defined the broad design extends throughout the project which comprises 22 courtrooms, judges’ chambers, library, administration and registry, housed within
23,000 square metres. Two six-storey south facing glass atria
provide the changing qualities of natural light.

Seven of the courtrooms are contained within the ‘opal’ vessel of the building; its patina copper skin identifying it as the ceremonial part
of the court. An indigenous court is integrated within the ceremonial courts. It is designed in the ‘round’ to resemble the indigenous process of meeting in a circle on natural ground.

Within the building, public spaces and courtrooms are finished
in a range of natural materials of Australian and South Australian origin, including copper, red gum timbers and granite. The building’s external finishes draw upon the local Adelaide environment, as is particularly evident in the façade which reflects the colours of the Adelaide Hills and Plains throughout the seasons.

All courtrooms have been designed to have external views and access to natural daylight. The planning of the court eliminated wasteful and tedious long corridors for judicial circulation and adopted a direct means of vertical circulation to access the courts
for both judges and public.

      Beyond sustainability

A building such as a court house is a major public asset and needs
to remain viable for many decades. The Adelaide Court has a
design life of fifty years, and an important aspect of this, beyond maintenance, durability and recurrent costs, is the need for flexibility and expansion. Its contribution to energy and water management includes recycled grey water, rain water harvesting and solar photovoltaic panels.

      Awards

2006 RAIA (SA Chapter) Awards –
Commendation – New Buildings

      Publications

Poetic justice / by Rachel Bernstone
Indesign, no 27, 2006, pp. 174 – 181