The new Huerfano Courthouse creates a state-of-the-art judicial complex while honoring the former historic courthouse next door. Stories of how the new courthouse came to reality are as important as the building’s judicial presence. For decades courts administrators and judges advocated for a 21st-century facility to solve critical safety, security, technology deficiencies, and all-around modern-day judicial systems. Decades-long efforts finally succeeded through a precedent-setting state legislative remedy, coupled with local tax-payers voting to support a sales tax to fund construction.
The local community was instrumental throughout the design process—even participating in a hands-on brick-patterning workshop to help define the final exterior masonry. Rightly so, the building symbolizes more to the community than judicial servitude. Huerfano Courthouse opens its doors to welcome and celebrate the community, able to serve gatherings as well as housing a community-curated art program collaborating with local galleries, acclaimed regional artists, and even children from area schools.
- Primary focus on safety, in-custody transport, and 21st century court needs
- Extensive stakeholder and community engagement
- A civic destination for judicial services and community gathering
Take a look at the Behind the Design “Gem” Stories here.