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Chipperfield Architects Ltd, London, UK
 
 

Perspective

Explanation of the Architect

The particular natural 'island' conditions of the coastal site will provide a specific character to this institution, suggesting a retreat from urban pressures, a campus next to the dunes providing a civilising and humane environment for justice. It is uncompressed, open and at the same time discreet. The building organisation provides a clear and logical arrangement embodying a harmonious relationship between the various parts of the judicial system. The Public, Judiciary, and Office of the Prosecutor functions and the Registry are divided into two parallel buildings.

(...) The architectural resolution of the building avoids monumentalism and aims to optimise the physical experience of the natural environment.

Opinion of the Jury

The design provides 'a campus next to the dunes' with a division of the organs into two parallel buildings. A harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape is provided. The Jury basically appreciated the modest and unobtrusive approach, but also found the design concept not strong enough to reflect the values for which the ICC stands and would not convey the appropriate image. Security requirements are not considered adequately. The public is brought into the heart of the organisation, visitors and public are mixed up in the public court area. Furthermore, the Jury found the internal circulation problematic due to the long distances and the meandering floor plan layout.