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Wiel Arets Architects & Associates B.V., Maastricht, The Netherlands

Perspective

Explanation of the Architect

A contemplative working environment is designed to create the foundation for the more introverted courtrooms, the core of the project. Like precious gemstones set into jewellery, the courtrooms are framed appropriately. Four vertically extruded, lit cones denote the rooms for hearings. The epicentre of the legal organization is formed amongst a sequence of other voids in the form of patios encased by workplaces In plan the courtrooms become part of the overall spatial set-up, in section the cones display an iconographic silhouette.

  

Opinion of the Jury

The authors of the design compare their project with 'precious gemstones set into jewellery'. And indeed, the Jury confirms the design to convey a powerful image. The significant approach leads to a unique project, which corresponds with an interesting landscape concept; the hedge gardens can be integrated into the external security concept. At first sight the gesture seem rather introvert, but the openings in the facades soften this impression.

The floor plan layouts offer an innovative approach for the office areas because of the plentiful free space and the possible interaction between the different organs. Flexibility and communication are provided in an excellent way.

The courtrooms are included in a very natural way although the cones above the courtrooms create a powerful statement. These courtrooms acquire great significance because of the plentiful daylight from above.