This new courthouse is the most significant civic building to be constructed in Woodland in nearly a century.
Yolo County Courthouse significantly improves operations for court staff as well as enhanced security for visitors and staff. It also consolidates seven court locations from throughout the county into one central building. As a result, the new building contains 14 courtrooms, a jury assembly, and state-of-the-art administrative and judicial offices.
Design
The design for the new courthouse recalls its historic counterpart with a curved façade and a four-column portico at the entrance. The incorporation of grand pillars interspersed with large-format windows further reinforces the civic feel of the building. Likewise, the building features a granite base and precast inspired by Sierra White granite of the region. Meanwhile, on the interior light wells bathe the entry hall in natural light, and towering windows adorn the lobby to create a transparent and welcoming atmosphere. The new building meets all of the current seismic and safety requirements, relieves overcrowding issues, and provides for future expansion.
Award-Winning Design
- Significant Project Achievement Award, New Buildings Western Council of Construction Consumers, 2016
- Justice Facilities Review, AIA Committee on Architecture for Justice, 2018
- Award of Excellence (New Construction), Structural Engineers Association of California, 2017
USGBC LEED Silver-Certified
Sustainable design strategies include:
- Building orientation improves passive thermal properties and allows it to take advantage of natural light
- Main public corridor and secured corridor provide additional thermal buffers to the occupied spaces
- Abundant, carefully regulated natural light provides much of daytime lighting
- A centralized building automation system controls all building systems, which include optimal start and stop routines
- Exterior south facades feature sunshades
- Water-saving strategies include a native low-water use landscape, areas for stormwater filtering, and low-flow restroom fixtures.
- Granite cladding and architectural precast concrete were sourced and produced within 500 miles of project site with functional lifetimes of 50 to 75 years
- More than 75 percent construction waste diverted from landfill
