The John M. Roll U.S. Courthouse is intended to be a modern interpretation of the classic American courthouse. Construction of the building, which is targeting LEED Gold, was facilitated by the use of building information modeling; the team credits BIM for creating expedited work and financial benefits. The principal facade comprises flanking sandstone masses inset with a double-height glass lobby. The juxtaposition of stone and glass is intended to contrast a sense of permanence with lightness and transparency, conveying the balance of precedent and openness in the justice system. The east and west faces of the building are shaded by a weathered steel trellis structure supporting vines that provides dappled, controlled sunlight to the perimeter spaces inside.

Image courtesy Liam Frederick Photography

John M. Roll Courthouse, Yuma, Ariz.

John M. Roll U.S. CourthouseYuma, Ariz.

Key Players

Contractor Sundt Construction Inc., Tempe, Ariz.

Owner U.S. General Services Administration, San Francisco

Lead Design Ehrlich Architects, Culver City, Calif.

MEP LSW Engineers, Phoenix

Landscape Architect Ten Eyck Landscape Architects Inc., Phoenix

Subcontractors Aero Automatic Sprinkler Co., Tempe Mechanical, Banker Insulation Inc., Cornerstone Detention Products Inc., Performance Contracting and Western Millwork