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Moshe Safdie & Associates, Somerville, Massachusetts, USA

Perspective

Explanation of the Architect

The site offers an opportunity to create a court in a garden setting. Bound by the dunes and lush treed areas, the buildings are limited to low-rise, walkable structures, set within the tree line, and defining a series of gardens, terraces, and ponds that flow and connect into the surrounding natural environment.

The building contains both the judiciary and the bureaucracy that supports it. In order to emphasize the ceremonial courtrooms, the offices and support spaces have been limited to three floors, crowned above by the courtrooms dominating the skyline. The buildings' linear organization along the glazed promenade - the spine of life of the courts - fosters social interaction and provides for clear and simple orientation.

Opinion of the Jury

The Jury appreciated the reaction of the building to the surrounding with a landscape and a city orientated 'face' of the premises according to the author's aim to 'create a court in a garden setting'. The integration of water in combination with a low building was assessed as a typology that is very typical for The Hague. Some Jury members had doubts about the tower and about the arbitrary forms of the courtrooms ('satellite dishes'), but is was also considered that these elements provide qualities. The main entrance as provided, is too modest and is not optimally located. A second entrance point at the eastern end of the central spine is conceivable. The landscape concept misunderstands the urban situation.

The functionality requirements are fulfilled in a very feasible way. The organisational concept is clear and feasible. The room qualities of offices and circulation area are convincing. The public areas on top of the building are also a valuable contribution, but need further improvement in terms of security and safety (evacuation). The courtrooms offer a very elaborated daylight concept. The integration of the 4th courtroom is questionable.

The expected maintenance costs are standard. The energy and environmental system is feasible and the design offers an excellent water management system.