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Neutelings Riedijk Architecten bv, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
 
 

Perspective

Explanation of the Architect

The building is conceived as a low rise building around a large inner garden. The main height of the building coincides with the adjacent dunes. Along the van Alkemadelaan the building is crowned by three spheres comprising the courtrooms. The platonic volumes, three spheres, represent both the impartiality of justice and the threefold nature of the ICC (Judiciary, Prosecution and Registry). The spheres overlook the dunes and provide visibility for the ICC from a large distance. The main public functions are housed in a building under the spheres. These functions are aligned along a large inner hall. In order to comply with the security demands the inner hall has two separate levels: one for the public and one for the staff.

Opinion of the Jury

The proposed design shows the premises as a low rise building around a large inner garden. The courtrooms are emphasised as very iconic volumes on top of the main building. The setbacks provide a less higher image of the building and emphasises the courtrooms even more. The large inner hall is very impressive and fits well in the functional scheme. The Jury found the design concept would not reflect the values for which the ICC stands and would not convey the appropriate image. Especially the shape of the courtrooms are an overstatement. The extension suggested as 'reorganisation of one of the ... courtrooms into two' is not solved.