2023 ENR Texas & Louisiana Best Projects
Award of Merit: Travis County Civil and Family Courts
Photo courtesy Gensler
Travis County Civil and Family Courts
Austin
Award of Merit
Submitted by: Gensler
Owner: Hunt Development
Lead Design Firm: Gensler
General Contractor: Hensel Phelps
Civil Engineer: Garza EMC
Structural Engineer: Martinez Moore Engineers
MEP Engineer: Jose I. Guerra Inc. Consulting Engineers
Electrical/Plumbing Engineer: IMEG
Landscape Architect: TBG Partners
Courtroom Planning: CGL Cos.
Developer: Chameleon
Made possible by a public-private partnership, this new courthouse in downtown Austin addresses the evolving workforce and the skills needed to better serve the public.
Staggered every two levels, secure terraces with greenery and outdoor seating help provide a soothing environment. In the law library, a self-help center equipped with computers allows guests to navigate their court proceedings, and attorney-client conference rooms provide private spaces. A short-term child care center is also available.
Completed in December 2022, the facility also incorporates technology upgrades, video conferencing capabilities, online jury screening, e-filing and digital signage, facilitating access to courts and reducing the need for in-person visits.
Large windows provide a sense of transparency, giving the courthouse a dignified but approachable feel. Mindful of the building’s ecological footprint, a sustainable design is aiming for a two-star rating from the Austin Energy Green Building Program as well as LEED Silver certification.
