Courthouse: Courtroom

by WBDG Staff

Updated:

03-08-2018

OVERVIEW

WITHIN THIS PAGE

 Overview

 Space Attributes

 Relevant Codes and Standards

 Additional Resources

Courtrooms are spaces used to conduct formal judicial proceedings. A courtroom is combined with Judicial
Chambers and related support spaces such as Jury Suites to form a court/chamber "Set". A Courtroom in a Federal
Courthouse includes:

 U.S. Court of Appeals Courtrooms, plus Sound Locks (entry vestibules);

 U.S. District Courtrooms, plus Short-term Exhibit Storage and Public Entrance Sound Locks;

 U.S. Magistrate Courtrooms, plus Short-term Exhibit Storage and Public Entrance Sound Locks;

 U.S. Bankruptcy Courtrooms, plus Short-term Exhibit Storage and Public Entrance Sound Locks.

Courtrooms are typically located on the upper floors of Courthouse building shell and core structures.
Historic County Courthouse in Chardon, Ohio

U.S. Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse in Los Angeles, California

SPACE ATTRIBUTES

Key design concerns in courtrooms include separate circulation patterns for public, prisoner, and judiciary members;
special attention to acoustic and lighting levels; and balancing information technology and A/V systems design with the
need for highly aesthetic spaces. Typical features of courtroom space types include the list of applicable design
objectives elements as outlined below. For a complete list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of
whole building design, click on the titles below.
Technology continues to grow in use and importance within the courtroom including the ability to present information
on multiple devices at the same time.

Accessible

 Courtrooms shall comply with ADA Accessibility Guidelines, section 808, for entrances, turning space, clear floor
space (jury box and witness stand), judges' benches and courtroom stations, as well as spectator areas.

 Assistive listening systems must be provided for people with hearing disabilities to ensure they have access to
the court proceedings.

 Accessibility lifts: Lifts will have welded construction with electro-hydraulic operation. Ramps will be provided to
Clerks and Jury Box areas. A lift will be provided to the Witness Stand. Judge's Bench will be served by stair and
shared with Witness Stand lift with additional stop. See GSA's Mechanical Lift Analysis (Accessibility Method for
Accommodation of Physically Disabled People in the U.S. Courthouse Courtrooms).

Lifts for accessibility into the jury box in a courtroom.

Photos courtesy of Lift-U

Aesthetics

 High ceilings: To enhance spatial quality and create a "civic" aesthetic appropriate for the proceedings and
unobstructed courtroom interior views for all participants.
An aesthetically pleasing high ceiling and significant artwork define these two courtrooms

 Custom millwork and furnishings: AWI Premium Grade architectural millwork, wainscot or full wall height.
The detailed millwork in two different courtrooms

 Seating: Jury Seating is usually fixed based swiveling chairs with upholstered seats, and clear floor space to
accommodate wheelchairs; and may be fitted with A/V monitors. Spectator seating is typically a wooden pew
type, or may be upholstered auditorium type seating.
Jury seating will vary with the design and configuration of the courtroom

Functional / Operational

 Occupancy group classification: is Business B-2, Assembly A-3, with sprinklered protected construction and GSA
Acoustical Class A for critical noise-sensitive spaces.
A Supreme Court interior.
Photo Credit: Coakley Williams Construction

A District Court interior.

Photo Credit: Coakley Williams Construction

Productive

 Acoustical treatments such as upholstered walls or wall/ceiling panels. The Judge must be able to confer with
counsel at the bench out of earshot of other participants.

 Raised floors: A Judge's Bench has a 24" raised dais above the courtroom floor; Courtroom Deputy Clerk and
Law Clerk stations have a 6" raised dais; Witness Stands have 12" raised dais; and Jury Boxes have a two-level
raised platform at 6" and 12" above the courtroom floor. The public seating area and courtroom "well" have a
raised floor—the preferred system for distribution of critical services (power, voice, data, and HVAC) in
Courtroom space types. Raised floors for Courtrooms may have low-pressure high induction diffusers and be
constructed of concrete filled metal pans at 24" modules with pedestal and stringer support, with intermediate
support. Raised floors allow for adjustment of services to participant furnishings (tables, lecterns, seating) to
accommodate line-of-sight and acoustical separation requirements.

 Pressurized raised floor air supply with ceiling plenum.

 AHUs are part of the building shell and core provisions; assume this space type requires a 25% increase in
cooling capacity. Provide one AHU for every pair of courtrooms. Courtrooms to have separate zones for the well
and public seating. Provide separate thermostat controls at the Judge's Bench and the Deputy Courtroom Clerk.
The Grand Jury Hearing Room to be a separate zone from other spaces in the Grand Jury Suite.
This judge's bench is raised for optimal viewing across the courtroom and to create the sightlines and hierarchy
necessary for the courtroom's proceedings.

Secure / Safe

 Special finishes: Federal courtrooms typically require ballistics cladding integral with Judges' benches and other
special security features per U.S. Marshals Service design standards.

 Special security features: Emergency power is provided by generator(s) in building shell and core provisions.
Provision for attack-resistant, short-term exhibit storage (safe) is required.

Sustainable

 A high level of indoor air quality must be provided to courtroom spaces but systems should not interfere with
acoustics or security measures.

 Use non-toxic materials and finishes including those with recycled content, low maintenance, and regional
availability.

 A courtroom may have windows (regular or clerestory) or skylights to obtain the benefits of daylight but must be
considered carefully in balance with the security requirements. Windows and skylights must be sealed, double-
or triple-glazed, and equipped to control heat gain/loss, brightness, glare, noise, and dust infiltration. To prevent
distraction and increase security, higher windowsills or clerestory windows or skylights are more desirable.

 Incorporate energy efficient lighting.

Example Program

The following is a representative building program.

COURTROOMS

DESCRIPTION PER SET SF EACH SMALL COURTHOUSE MEDIUM COURTHOUSE LARGE COUR

Sr. District Courtrooms

Courtrooms 1 2,400 2,400 4,800 9,600

Soundlock 1 80 80 160 320

Short Term Exhibit 1 50 50 0 0

Storage

Ancillary Facilities

Jury Facilities

District Courtrooms

Courtrooms 1 2,400 2,400 0 0

Soundlock 1 80 80 0 0

Short Term Exhibit 1 50 50 0 0

Storage

Ancillary Facilities

Jury Facilities

Magistrate Courtroom
Facilities

Courtrooms 1 1,800 1,800 0 0

Soundlock 1 80 80 0 0
 Short Term Exhibit 1 50 50 0 0
Storage

Ancillary Facilities

Jury Facilities

Bankruptcy Courtroom
Facilities

Courtrooms 1 1,800 1,800 0 0

Soundlock 1 80 80 0 0

Short Term Exhibit 1 50 50 0 0

Storage

Ancillary Facilities

Example Plans

The following diagrams are representative of typical courtroom plans.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Courtroom. Click here to expand photo

Standard Courtroom (U.S. District). Click here to expand photo

Grand Jury Courtroom. Click here to expand photo

Note: See the U.S. Courts Design Guide and other courts design resources for floor plan configurations typical of
additional courtroom types.

Example Construction Criteria

For GSA, the unit costs for courtroom space types are based on the construction quality and design features in the
following table . This information is based on GSA's benchmark interpretation and could be different for other owners.

RELEVANT CODES AND STANDARDS

The following agencies and organizations have developed codes and standards affecting the design of courtrooms. Note
that the codes and standards are minimum requirements. Architects, engineers, and consultants should consider
exceeding the applicable requirements whenever possible:

 ASTM F 1247 Standard Specifications for Intrusion Resistant Generic Vault Structures

 ICC IBC International Building Code

 PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service, GSA

 Public Buildings Service Pricing Desk Guide, Edition No. 2, GSA

 Standard Level Features and Finishes for U.S. Courts Facilities

 U.S. Courts Design Guide

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WBDG

BUILDING TYPES

Federal Courthouse

SPACE TYPES

Courthouse: Enhanced Office, Courthouse: Judicial Chamber, Hearing Room

DESIGN OBJECTIVES

Accessible—Provide Equal Access and Flexibility, Aesthetics—Understanding the Language and Elements of
Design, Functional / Operational—Account for Functional Needs, Functional / Operational—Ensure Appropriate
Product/Systems Integration, Productive—Assure Reliable Systems and Spaces, Productive—Provide Comfortable
Environments, Secure / Safe—Occupant Safety and Health

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Delivery Teams—Select Appropriate Design Professionals

BUILDING COMMISSIONING

Building Commissioning

Publications

 Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AOUSC)

o Electronic Courtroom/Chambers, An Interim Guide to Courtroom Technologies

o Guide Specifications for Modification/Installation of Audio Systems in United States Courthouses

o Guide to Judiciary Policies and Procedures

o Judiciary's Human Resources Manual

o United States Courthouse Design & Construction Process

o United States Courts Moving Guide

 Architectural Graphic Standards, 12th Edition by The American Institute of Architects, Dennis J. Hall. New York,
NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2016.

 Building Type Basics for Justice Facilities by Todd S. Phillips & Michael A. Griebel, New York, NY: John Wiley &
Sons, Inc., July 2003.

 Courtroom Design for Flexible Sustainable Courthouses&mbsp; by Hon. Brad Hill and Clifford Ham. Judicial
Council of California, 2015.

 GSA

o Courtroom Lighting—Criteria Evaluation and Energy Use Study

 o PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service, July 2018.

o Green Courthouse Design Concepts, July, 1997.

o Standard Level Features and Finishes for U.S. Court Facilities, October 1, 1996.

 U.S. Courts Design Guide (Judicial Conference of the United States), 2007.

Others

 Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AOUSC)

 The Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys has a design guide covering all aspects of courthouse security. (Available
for limited use only)

 GSA’s Courthouse Program—ensure the consistent, excellent, and cost-effective delivery of the courthouse
construction program.

 National Center for State Courts provides leadership, guidance, and information support for courts design and
management.

 The U.S. Marshals Service now has a design guide covering all aspects of courthouse security, as well as security
in the Marshals Service space. (Available for limited use only)

Courthouse: Enhanced Office

by WBDG Staff

Updated:

10-19-2018

OVERVIEW

WITHIN THIS PAGE

 Overview

 Space Attributes

 Relevant Codes and Standards

 Additional Resources

The Enhanced Office space type primarily refers to ancillary offices, jury facilities, and other spaces attached to
courtrooms such as the Judge's Conference Room, Judge's Robing Room, News Media Room, Service Unit, Private Toilet,
and Equipment Storage, but excluding the Courtroom Public Entrance Soundlock. In addition, the Enhanced Office space
type includes the office, storage, and workspace for the Court Reporter/Recorder, Deputy Courtroom Clerk, and
Transcriber/Typist located at the court set by the courtrooms; and Jury Facilities including Jury Assembly Spaces, Trial
Jury Suite, and spaces within the Grand Jury Suite, except for the Grand Jury Hearing Room. In order to comply with
court-related standards, Private Toilets, Conference Rooms, and Service Units are included in the Enhanced Office space
type rather than as separate space types. See also WBDG Federal Courthouse.
Office in the Harris County Courthouse, which dates to 1910.
Photo Credit: Nash Baker

SPACE ATTRIBUTES

Enhanced Office space types can be differentiated from more general office space types because of increased attention
to security and acoustical separations, and a high level of finishes in Judge and Jury areas. Typical features of courtroom
enhanced office space types include the list of applicable design objectives elements as outlined below. For a complete
list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of whole building design, click on the titles below.

Accessible

 Private work areas must be adaptable to accessibility. It is recommended that private work areas be made
accessible during initial design and construction to avoid more expensive alterations for accessibility in the
future. Additionally, spaces should be designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate changing needs of the
staff or users of the spaces.

Aesthetics

 Finishes: Enhanced Office space types are generally finished with durable materials that reflect the seriousness
of the judicial mandate and the dignity of the judicial system. Ambient lighting with dimmable controls and
special accent lighting is typically used in Conference/Witness Waiting Rooms, and Jury Trial Rooms.
Consider energy efficient lighting fixtures.

Functional / Operational

 Occupancy: The Enhanced Office space types fall into the B2 occupancy classification with sprinklered
construction. The GSA acoustical class is C1 for enclosed offices and Class C2 for open offices.

Productive
  Special HVAC: Incorporate flexible, multi-zoned mechanical equipment with state-of-the-art controls and energy
efficiency features. All court and judiciary-related offices must have individual HVAC controls, monitored from a
central location. To control noise during all modes of operation, the systems must be provided with one or more
of the following: sound traps and acoustical lining in duct work; low-velocity, low-static-pressure fan systems;
and/or special low-noise diffusers.

Secure / Safe

 Increased Security: Security planning is typically factored in at the beginning of the design process and should
include a comprehensive approach to operational, technical, and physical safety methods. Court components
and circulation patterns require varying degrees of security therefore, each specialized room or area should be
planned separately. Typically, special attention will be given to adjacency and circulation. Public circulation
requires a single controlled entry, but allows free movement within the building. Restricted circulation has a
controlled interior entry and is limited to judges, court personnel, and official visitors.
Additionally, cybersecurity needs to be addressed as a policy and implemented through education and training
of staff and employees.

Sustainable

 A holistic approach to sustainability and green building design strategies should be considered and planned for
the whole building. However, individual spaces should also be designed and planned with natural daylighting,
energy efficient lighting, healthy indoor air quality, and Low and/or No-VOC materials, furnishes, and finishes
whenever possible. To save or reduce energy use, consider occupancy sensors, dimmable ballasts, and energy
efficient task lighting. To increase occupant comfort, provide individual control of HVAC in these spaces,
wherever possible.

Diagram of spatial relationship, accessibility, and circulation (SRAC) in a U.S. Court of Appeals and related offices.
Image courtesy of U.S. Courts Design Guide
Example Program

A sample program is provided along with three floor plans (low, mid, and high rise).

ENHANCED OFFICE

TENANT OCCUPIABLE AREAS PER SET SF EACH SMALL COURTHOUSE MEDIUM COURTHOUSE LARGE COUR

Sr. District Courtrooms

Witness/ 2 150 300 600 1,200

Attorney Conference Room

Public Waiting Area 1 400 400 800 1,600

Equipment Storage 1 100 100 200 400

Ancillary Facilities

Judicial Staff Toilets 1 50 50 100 200

Court Reporter/Recorder Office 1 150 150 300 600

Court Reporter/ 1 50 50 100 200

Recorder Storage

Shared Work Room 1 50 50 100 200

Transcriber/Typist Workstation 1 50 50 100 200

Jury Facilities

Jury Room Soundlock Entry 1 50 50 100 200

Juror's Toilets 1 100 100 200 400

Coat Closet 1 20 20 40 80

Trial Jury Room 1 350 350 700 1,400

 Service Unit 1 20 20 40 80

Audio/Video Equipment 1 10 10 20 40

Sworn Jury Custodian 1 50 50 100 200

District Courtrooms

Witness/ 2 150 300 600 1,200

Attorney Conference Room

Public Waiting Area 1 400 400 800 1,600

Equipment Storage 1 100 100 200 400

Ancillary Facilities

Judicial Staff Toilets 1 50 50 100 200

Court Reporter/Recorder Office 1 150 150 300 600

Court Reporter/ 1 50 50 100 200

Recorder Storage

Shared Work Room 1 50 50 100 200

Transcriber/Typist Workstation 1 50 50 100 200

Jury Facilities

Jury Room Soundlock Entry 1 50 50 100 200

Juror's Toilets 1 100 100 200 400

Coat Closet 1 20 20 40 80

Trial Jury Room 1 350 350 700 1,400

 Service Unit 1 20 20 40 80

Audio/Video Equipment 1 10 10 20 40

Sworn Jury Custodian 1 50 50 100 200

Magistrate Courtroom Facilities

Witness/ 2 150 300 1,200 2,400

Attorney Conference Room

Public Waiting Area 1 400 400 1,600 3,200

Equipment Storage 1 100 100 400 800

Ancillary Facilities

Judicial Staff Toilets 1 50 50 200 400

Court Reporter/Recorder Office 1 150 150 600 1,200

Court Reporter/ 1 50 50 200 400

Recorder Storage

Shared Work Room 1 50 50 200 400

Transcriber/Typist Workstation 1 50 50 200 400

Jury Facilities

Jury Room Soundlock Entry 1 50 50 200 400

Juror's Toilets 1 100 100 400 800

Coat Closet 1 20 20 80 100

Trial Jury Room 1 250 250 1,000 2,000

 Service Unit 1 20 20 80 160

Audio/Video Equipment 1 10 10 40 80

Sworn Jury Custodian 1 50 50 200 400

Bankruptcy Courtroom Facilities

Witness/ 2 150 300 600 1,200

Attorney Conference Room

Public Waiting Area 1 400 400 800 1,600

Equipment Storage 1 80 80 160 320

Ancillary Facilities

Judicial Staff Toilets 1 50 50 100 200

Court Reporter/Recorder Office 1 150 150 300 600

Court Reporter/ 1 50 50 100 200

Recorder Storage

Shared Work Room 1 50 50 100 200

Example Construction Criteria

For GSA, the unit costs for enhanced office space types are based on the construction quality and design features in the
following table . This information is based on GSA's benchmark interpretation and could be different for other owners.

RELEVANT CODES AND STANDARDS

The following agencies and organizations have developed codes and standards affecting the design of enhanced office
spaces. Note that the codes and standards are minimum requirements. Architects, engineers, and consultants should
consider exceeding the applicable requirements whenever possible:

 ICC IBC International Building Code

 PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service, GSA

 U.S. Courts Design Guide

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WBDG

BUILDING TYPES

Federal Courthouse

SPACE TYPES

Courthouse: Courtroom, Courthouse: Judicial Chamber, Hearing Room

DESIGN OBJECTIVES

Accessible—Provide Equal Access and Flexibility, Aesthetics—Understanding the Language and Elements of
Design, Functional / Operational—Account for Functional Needs, Functional / Operational—Ensure Appropriate
Product/Systems Integration, Productive—Assure Reliable Systems and Spaces, Productive—Provide Comfortable
Environments, Secure / Safe—Occupant Safety and Health

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Delivery Teams—Select Appropriate Design Professionals

BUILDING COMMISSIONING

Building Commissioning

Courthouse: Judicial Chamber

by WBDG Staff

Updated:

10-22-2018

OVERVIEW

WITHIN THIS PAGE

 Overview

 Space Attributes

 Relevant Codes and Standards

 Additional Resources

Judicial Chambers are areas used by the U.S. Courts and are typically located on the upper floors of a Courthouse
building shell and core structure dedicated for U.S. Court occupancy. Judicial chambers are used for U.S. Court of
Appeals Chambers Suite, U.S. District Chambers Suite, U.S. Bankruptcy/Magistrate Chambers Suite, and Visiting/Non-
Resident Judge's Chambers Suite. Chambers serve a similar function as a law office practice and therefore require
designs that are accessible, productive, functional/operational, sustainable, and secure/safe. See also WBDG Federal
Courthouse.
SPACE ATTRIBUTES

Sample Judicial Chambers

Typical features of Judicial Chamber space types include the list of applicable design objectives elements as outlined
below. For a complete list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of whole building design, click on
the titles below.

Accessible

 Private work areas must be adaptable to accessibility. It is recommended that private work areas be made
accessible during initial design and construction to avoid more expensive alterations for accessibility in the
future. Additionally, spaces should be designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate changing needs of the
staff or users of the spaces.

Aesthetics

 Interior finishes should reflect the same design quality of the courtroom. Chambers should be viewed as an
extension of the courtroom. Finishes should give an impression of fine quality. Interior finishes should feature
Premium Grade architectural woodwork, either wainscot or full wall height.

 Floors must be carpeted. Wall and ceiling design must consider acoustics for internal speaking, light reflectance,
and contrast.

Functional / Operational

 The occupancy group classification is Business B-2 with sprinkler-protected construction.

 GSA Acoustical class A for critical noise separation between courtrooms and chambers and for conference
spaces within chambers.

 Chambers have communicating stairs (separate from public stairs)—that are judicial restricted stairs with metal
pan stair tread and landings at raised floor level. Restricted (Judiciary) elevators are geared traction type with
front opening doors and keycard control. Elevator door faces are painted metal. The cab allowance is $30,000
(Oct '00 dollars).
Sample magistrate judge's chambers. Each magistrate judge is allocated a total resident chambers area of 1,410 NSF or
130.89Nm2 to be subdivided in any way desired as conditions require. This diagram illustrates only one such potential
layout of chambers suite spaces.
Image credit: U.S. Courts Design Guide.

Productive

 Acoustical transfer ducts are provided at all acoustically rated partitions.

 Separate Air Handling Units (AHUs) for Judicial Chambers since they have frequent low-density occupancy when
courtrooms are not in use. Judicial Chambers located on collegial suits should be served by an AHU dedicated for
that floor. 100% direct exhaust is provided and operated by time clock or building automation system for private
toilets and service units.

 Separate controls are provided at the Judge's Chamber with override by the building shell and core BAS.
Individual override control of building heating and cooling control system to allow individual chambers to be
occupied in off-hours (24/7) to accommodate special workload demands—without running the entire
courthouse.

Secure / Safe

 Mitigating design measures are required to protect Chambers from forced entry at adjoining public spaces and
should include a comprehensive approach to operational, technical, and physical safety methods.
  Natural daylit windows with operable window treatment to obscure views and ballistics-resistant glazing where
line-of-sight risks exist.

Sustainable

 A holistic approach to sustainability and green building design strategies should be considered and planned for
the whole building. However, individual spaces should also be designed and planned with natural daylighting,
energy efficient lighting, healthy indoor air quality, and Low and/or No-VOC materials, furnishes, and finishes
whenever possible. To save or reduce energy use, consider occupancy sensors, dimmable ballasts, and energy
efficient task lighting. To increase occupant comfort, provide individual control of HVAC in these spaces,
wherever possible.

As technology continues to play an increasingly larger role in the court process, it is important to plan for technology in
the judicial chamber as well.

Example Program

The following building program is representative of Judicial Chambers.

JUDICIAL CHAMBERS

DESCRIPTION PER SF SMALL MEDIUM LARGE

SET EACH COURTHOUSE COURTHOUSE COURTHO

Sr. District Chambers

Judge's Chambers 1 500 500 1,000 2,000

Judge's Toilet 1 50 50 100 200

Judge's Closet 1 10 10 20 40

Vestibule 1 50 50 100 200

 Reception Area 1 100 100 200 400

Coat Closet 1 10 10 20 40

Secretarial Workstation 1 120 120 240 480

File Storage Area 1 140 140 280 560

Facsimile Machine Area 1 10 10 20 40

Copier Area 1 50 50 100 200

Storage 1 80 80 160 320

Service Unit 1 20 20 40 80

Reference/Conference Room 1 400 400 800 1,600

Law Clerk's Offices 2 150 300 600 1,200

(2 @ 150 SF/Chambers Suite)

District Chambers

Judge's Chambers 1 500 500 1,000 2,000

Judge's Toilet 1 50 50 100 200

Judge's Closet 1 10 10 20 40

Vestibule 1 50 50 100 200

Reception Area 1 100 100 200 400

Coat Closet 1 10 10 20 40

Secretarial Workstation 1 120 120 240 480

 File Storage Area 1 140 140 280 560

Facsimile Machine Area 1 10 10 20 40

Copier Area 1 50 50 100 200

Storage 1 80 80 160 320

Service Unit 1 20 20 40 80

Reference/Conference Room 1 400 400 800 1,600

Law Clerk's Offices 2 150 300 600 1,200

(2 @ 150 SF/Chambers Suite)

Shared Judges Conference Room with Service Unit 1 250 250 500 1,000

Magistrate Chamber

Judge's Chambers 1 400 400 1,600 3,200

Judge's Toilet 1 50 50 200 400

Judge's Closet 1 10 10 40 80

Vestibule 1 50 50 200 400

Reception Area 1 100 100 400 800

Coat Closet 1 10 10 40 80

Secretarial Workstation 1 120 120 480 960

File Storage Area 1 60 60 240 480

Facsimile Machine Area 1 10 10 40 80

 Copier Area 1 50 50 200 400

Storage 1 80 80 320 640

Service Unit 1 20 20 80 160

Reference/Conference Room 1 300 300 1,200 2,400

Law Clerk's Offices 1 150 150 600 1,200

Bankruptcy Chamber

Judge's Chambers 1 400 400 800 1,600

Judge's Toilet 1 50 50 100 200

Judge's Closet 1 10 10 20 40

Vestibule 1 50 50 100 200

Reception Area 1 100 100 200 400

Coat Closet 1 10 10 20 40

Secretarial Workstation 1 120 120 240 480

File Storage Area 1 60 60 120 240

Facsimile Machine Area 1 10 10 20 40

Copier Area 1 50 50 100 200

Storage 1 80 80 160 320

Service Unit 1 20 20 40 80
 Reference/Conference Room 1 300 300 600 1,200

Law Clerk's Offices 1 150 150 300 600

Sample Plans

Example Construction Criteria

For GSA, the unit costs for Detention space types are based on the construction quality and design features in the
following table . This information is based on GSA's benchmark interpretation and could be different for other owners.

RELEVANT CODES AND STANDARDS

 ICC IBC International Building Code

 PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service, GSA

 Public Buildings Service Pricing Desk Guide, Edition No. 2, GSA

 Standard Level Features and Finishes for U.S. Courts Facilities

 U.S. Courts Design Guide

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WBDG

BUILDING TYPES
Federal Courthouse

SPACE TYPES

Courthouse: Courtroom, Courthouse: Enhanced Office, Hearing Room

DESIGN OBJECTIVES

Aesthetics—Understanding the Language and Elements of Design, Functional / Operational—Account for Functional
Needs, Functional / Operational—Ensure Appropriate Product/Systems Integration, Productive—Assure Reliable
Systems and Spaces, Productive—Provide Comfortable Environments, Secure / Safe—Occupant Safety and Health

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Delivery Teams—Select Appropriate Design Professionals

Lobby

by Cecily Channell, WBDG Staff

Updated:

05-09-2016

OVERVIEW

WITHIN THIS PAGE

 Overview

 Space Attributes

 Relevant Codes and Standards

 Additional Resources

The lobby space type includes foyers, entries to halls, and security screening areas at or near the entrance to a building
or demarcated space, and are meant to welcome and direct tenants and visitors, control access, and provide exit ways
from buildings. This space type is often designed with both secure and nonsecure areas. The lobby space type does not
include elevator lobbies. Building lobbies often serve as the "public face" of building interiors.

SPACE ATTRIBUTES

The character and function of a lobby space often influence a visitor's first impression upon entering a building. Key
design concerns for this space type include balancing aesthetics, security, and operational considerations. Typical
features of lobby space types include the list of applicable design objectives elements as outlined below. For a complete
list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of whole building design, click on the titles below.

Aesthetics

 Utilize appropriate finishes, furniture, signage, and art to reflect the public nature of the space.

 A spatial compression/release experience can enhance the aesthetic experience (outside approach, compression
thru entrance doors/vestibule, release in lobby/atrium).
  Well-designed lobbies provide workers/occupants with a relief opportunity, such as breaks, from more confined
spaces (also see productive).

Functional / Operational

 Consider combining employee and visitor entrance to spaces.

 Design space to accommodate peak loads.

 Equipment that must be installed in lobbies should be of a low profile variety and consolidated with other
equipment to minimize bulk.

 Consider air pressurization and entrance door design to mitigate stack effect at tall building entrance and
elevator lobbies.

 Specify durable finishes to accommodate maximum pedestrian traffic.

Historic Preservation

 Public buildings will often have historic features in lobbies and hallways, requiring—and deserving—special
design treatment in renovations.

 Maintain the historic character of spaces while modernizing for enhanced security, accessibility, and general
circulation.

 Equipment that must be installed in historic lobbies should be placed carefully to avoid altering the original
spatial configuration of the lobby. Place security equipment in ancillary spaces where possible.

Productive

 Lobby spaces requiring 24-hour operation should be provided with a dedicated HVAC system.

 For lobby spaces at the exterior of a building, a dedicated air-handling unit should be provided to maintain
positive pressurization.

 Design lobbies to provide workers/occupants with a relief opportunity—such as breaks—from more confined
spaces.

Secure / Safe

 In higher-risk facilities, separate secure and nonsecure areas with turnstiles, metal detectors or other devices
used to control access to secure areas. A control desk and bag checking area should be located within the secure
area. Mechanical ductwork, piping and main electrical conduit runs should not extend from one area to the
other. Traffic separation devices should be flexible and portable to allow for changing traffic patterns.

 Design control points such that secure areas cannot be bypassed. Ensure that security personnel can properly
observe all areas of control points.

 Larger security screening areas should be located in conjunction with art installations, visitor seating and
exterior entrances. Adequate space should be set aside for queuing. If queuing will occur, the area should be
enclosed in blast resistant construction.
  Avoid installing features such as trash receptacles or mailboxes that can be used to hide devices in nonsecure
areas.

 Avoid using raised floor systems in nonsecure areas.

 Location of fire command center and emergency elevator control panel requires design integration with lobby
wall finish, BAS systems, fire protection systems, and building communications systems.

 Design of lobby doors to street must account for egress from higher floors if stairs exit into lobby, and not
directly to the outside.

Sustainable

 For lobby spaces at the exterior of a building, utilize daylighting to reduce electric lighting needs.

 Consider air lock or vestibules at entrance doors to prevent loss of heating/cooling.

RELEVANT CODES AND STANDARDS

The following agencies and organizations have developed codes and standards affecting the design of lobbies. Note that
the codes and standards are minimum requirements. Architects, engineers, and consultants should consider exceeding
the applicable requirements whenever possible:

 GSA PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service

 GSA Public Buildings Service Pricing Desk Guide, Edition No. 2

 International Building Code

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WBDG

BUILDING TYPES

Federal Courthouse, Land Port of Entry, Office Building, Government Laboratory

DESIGN OBJECTIVES

Accessible—Provide Equal Access and Flexibility, Aesthetics—Understanding the Language and Elements of
Design, Functional / Operational—Account for Functional Needs, Functional / Operational—Ensure Appropriate
Product/Systems Integration, Productive—Assure Reliable Systems and Spaces, Productive—Provide Comfortable
Environments, Secure / Safe—Occupant Safety and Health

The Sangguniang Panlungsod, being the legislative body has a good grasp of the city’s problems and addresses these
concerns through the enactment of ordinances.

The Office of the City Administrator develops plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the Mayor, as the case
may be, implement the same particularly those, which have to do with the management and administration. Assists in
the coordination of work of all officials of the local government unit; establish maintain a sound personnel for the LGU
designed to promote career development; uphold merit principle in the local government service and conduct
continuing organizational development of the LGU with the end view of instituting effective administrative reforms and
in the frontline in the delivery of administrative support services particularly those related to the situations during and in
the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and calamities.

The Office of the City Planning and Development Coordinator acts as one of the support staff who seeks to coordinate
inter-office activities and integrate plans and programs, studies fiscal matters and designs, fiscal policies. The office acts
as the secretariat of the local development council.

The Office of the City Engineer is functioned to implement and maintain formulated infrastructure plans and projects to
the satisfaction of the constituents as per specifications.

The Office of the City Treasurer collects and disburses funds of the city government. Funds are used to finance projects
cited in the plan.

The Office of the City Accountant keeps records of the financial transaction of the city government and conducts internal
audit of release funds.

The Office of the City Internal Audit Services ensures that all resources of the city government shall be managed,
expended or utilized in accordance with law and regulations and safeguarded against loss or wastage through illegal or
improper disposition with a view to ensuring efficiency, economy and effectiveness in its operations.

The Office of the City Assessor plays an important role in augmenting city revenues by revising real property taxes.

The Office of the City Civil Registry keeps records on marriages, births and deaths. These data are useful in planning and
projecting future scenarios upon which alternative decisions are made.

The Office of the City Budget Officer acts to consolidate financial proposals from various sectors and prepares the city
annual budget. Study and evaluate budgetary implications of the proposed legislation and submit comments and
recommendation thereon.

The Office of the City Social Welfare and Development Officer takes care of services intended to alleviate the suffering of
the disadvantaged and disabled members of the community. A front liner in the delivery of basic services, particularly
those that have to do with immediate relief during and assistance in the aftermath of man-made and natural disaster
and natural calamities.

The Office of the City Agricultural Officer handles to formulate measures in providing technical assistance and support in
carrying out said measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate facilities relative to
agricultural services.

The Office of the City Health Officer takes charge in formulating plans, measures and strategies in carrying out the
delivery of health services, efficient and effective implementation of health-oriented projects and activities, and the
provision of adequate facilities related to health services.

The Office of the Economic Enterprise enforces market law rules and regulations; information on market fees and
responsible for effective collection and inter-agency coordination on Economic Enterprise for both government offices
and non-governmental organization.

The Office of the Environment & Natural Resources takes care, maintain, protect and preserve communal forests, water
sheds, tree parks, mangroves, greenbelts and similar forest projects; provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest
development projects and manage and maintain seed banks and produce seedlings for natural resources-related
conservation, and utilization activities consistent with ecological balance.
The Office of the City Architect is functioned to develop plans and strategies, architectural planning and design.

The Office for General Services recommends reasonable rental rates of private properties, which may be leased for the
official use of the LGU; maintains and supervise janitorial, landscaping and other related services in all public buildings
and other real property, whether owned or leased by the LGU; collate and disseminate information regarding prices,
shipping and other costs of supplies and other items commonly used by the LGU; perform archival and record
management with respect to records of offices and departments of the LGU; perform all other functions pertaining to
supply and property management hereto performed by the treasurer; and enforce policies on records creation,
maintenance and disposal and be in the frontline of general services related activities, such as the possible or imminent
destruction or damage to records, supplies, properties and structures and the orderly and sanitary clearing up of waste
materials or debris, particularly during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural calamities and disasters.

The City Business Permits and Licensing Office examines all applications and computations of payment related to
issuance of permits and licenses; inspects all business establishments, tricycle and occupation permits to ensure strict
implementation of the Revenue Code and related ordinances; generates reports and other information such as
certifications, certified true copies of business and tricycle registration and other needed documents upon request of
different entities; acts on problems, complaints or needs pertaining on business, tricycle and occupation permits and
keeps all records, incoming and outgoing documents of the office.

Office for the City Cooperatives assists in the organization of cooperatives; provides technical and other forms of
assistance to existing cooperatives to enhance their viability as an economic enterprise and social organization; assists
cooperatives in establishing linkages with government agencies and non-government organizations involved in the
promotion and integration of the concept of cooperatives in the livelihood of the people and other community activities
and be in the frontline of cooperatives organization, rehabilitation or viability-enhancement, particularly during and in
the aftermath of man-made and natural calamities and disasters, to aid in survival and if necessary subsequent
rehabilitation.

Office for Veterinary Services formulates measures on all matters pertaining to the slaughter of animals for human
consumption and he regulation of slaughterhouses; regulates the keeping of domestic animals; regulates and inspects
poultry, milk and dairy products for public consumptions; enforces all laws and regulations of the prevention to cruelty
to animals; takes the necessary measures to eradicate, prevent or cure all forms of animal diseases and be in the
frontline of veterinary related activities, such as in the outbreak of the highly-contagious and deadly disease, and in
situations resulting in the depletion of animals for works and human consumption, particularly those arising from and in
the aftermath of man-made and natural calamities and disasters.

Office for Human Resource Management takes charge in the preparation of plantilla of personnel, training programs
(HRDP), appointment papers; maintains 201 Files, personnel action report and signs of service records; facilitates
retOffice on Public Information provides relevant, adequate and timely information to the LGU and its residents; furnish
information and data on LGU’s to government agencies or offices as may be required by law or ordinance; and non-
governmental organizations to be furnished to said agencies and organizations; Maintains effective liaison with the
various sectors of the community on matters and issues that affect the livelihood and the quality of life of the
inhabitants and encourage support for programs of the local and national government and be in the frontline in
providing information during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural calamities and disasters, with special
attention to the victims thereof, to help minimize injuries and casualties during and after the emergency, and to
accelerate relief and rehabilitation.irement documents; evaluates and reviews Performance Report of Employees and
monthly updates leave credits.
Office for Legal Services represents the local government unit in all civil actions and special proceedings; drafts and
reviews ordinances, contracts, bonds, leases, and other instruments involving any interest of the LGU; investigates or
cause to be investigated any local officials or employee for administrative neglect or misconduct in office, and
recommend appropriate action to the mayor or sanggunian and is in the frontline of protecting human rights and
prosecutes any violations thereof, particularly those which occur during and in the aftermath of man made or natural
disasters or calamities.

Candon City Cyber Library – to update the youth and the general populace with the advancements of sciences,
mathematics and information technology through the use of computers, multimedia resource information and the
Internet. This LGU facility will be free for school children and college students, while charging a lower fee for private
individuals as compared to privately owned computer shops.

The Internal Revenue collecting arm of the Philippine Government. Includes agency profile, issuances, tax information,
taxpayer registration, online payments, ….

The premier guardian of the Philippine ballot. With FAQs, statistics, election history, election results, pertinent laws,
modernization, press releases, and links.

The Public Employment Service Office or PESO is a non- fee charging multi- employment service facility or entity
established or accredited pursuant to Republic Act 8759 otherwise known as the PESO Act of 1999.

List of All Philippine Government Agencies

Office of the President (OP)

Presidential Communication Operations Office (OPS)

Bureau of Communication Services (BCS)

Philippine Information Agency (PIA)

Philippines News Agency (PNA)

Radio-Television Malacañang (RTVM)

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)

Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA)

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center

National Statistics Office (NSO)

National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB)

Statistical Research and Training Center (SRTC)

Commission on Population

Tariff Commission

Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS)

Office of the Vice President

Senate of the Philippines

House of Representatives

Government Electronic Procurement System (G-EPS)

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)

Philippine Commission on Women (NCRFW)

Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG)

Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA)

Social Security System (SSS)

Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)

Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB)

Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC)

Pag-IBIG Fund (PAG-IBIG)

Career Executive Service Board

Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA)

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)

National Youth Commission (NYC)

Civil Service Commission (CSC)

Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

Commission on Elections (COMELEC)

Commission on Audit (COA)

Supreme Court of the Philippines

Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)

Bureau of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development

Bureau of Agrarian Reform Information & Education

Department of Agriculture (DA)

Agricultural Credit Policy Council

Agricultural Training Institute(ATI)

Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR)

Bureau of Agricultural Statistics(BAS)

Bureau of Agriculture & Fisheries Product Standard

Bureau of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources(BFAR)

Bureau of Plant Industry(BPI)

Bureau of Soils & Water Management(BSWM)

Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority

National Dairy Authority(NDA)

National Food Authority(NFA)

National Meat Inspection Service(NMIS)

National Nutrition Council(NNC)

National Tobacco Administration(NTA)

Northern Foods Corporation(NFC)

Philippine Carabao Center

Philippine Coconut Authority

Philippine Fisheries Development Authority

Philippine Rice Research Institute

Sugar Regulatory Administration

Department of Budget and Management (DBM)

Procurement Service

Department of Education (DEPED)

Commission on Higher Education(CHED)

National Book Development Board (NBDB)

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)

Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau(PAWB)

National Mapping & Resource Information Authority(NAMRIA)

National Water Resources Board(NWRB)

Mines and Geosciences Bureau

Department of Finance (DOF)

Bureau of Customs

Bureau of Internal Revenue(BIR)

Bureau of Local Government Finance(BLGF)

Bureau of Treasury

National Tax Research Center(NTRC)

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

Department of Health (DOH)

Bureau of Food and Drugs(BFAD)

Bureau of Health Devices & Technology

Bureau of Health Facilities & Services

Bureau of International Health Cooperation(BIHC)

Bureau of Local Health Development

Bureau of Quarantine

National Center for Disease Prevention and Control

National Center for Mental Health

National Epidemiology Center(NEC)

Philippine Children's Medical Center

Philippine Heart Center

Philippine National AIDS Council

Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM)

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)

National Police Commission(NAPOLCOM)

Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)

Department of Justice (DOJ)

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)

Bureau of Corrections- (BuCor)

Parole and Probation Administration(PPA)

Public Attorney's Office(PAO)

Land Registration Authority(LRA)

Commission on the Settlement of Land Problems(COSLAP)

Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC)

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)

Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics(BLES)

Bureau of Labor Relations(BLR)

Bureau of Local Employment(BLE)

Bureau of Rural Workers

Employees' Compensation Commission(ECC)

Philippine Overseas Employment Administration(POEA)

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration(OWWA)

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority(TESDA)

Information and Publication Service(IPS)

Occupational Safety and Health Center(OSHC)

National Conciliation and Mediation Board(NCMB)

National Wages and Productivity Commission(NWPC)

National Labor Relations Commission(NWPC)

Regional Tripartite Wages & Productivity Board, Region VII

Regional Tripartite Wages & Productivity Board, Region IX

Department of National Defense (DND)

Armed Forces of the Philippines(AFP)

Philippine Army

Philippine Air Force(PAF)

Philippine Navy
Philippine Marine Corps

Office of Civil Defense(OCD)

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office(PVAO)

National Defense College of the Philippines(NDCP)

Government Arsenal

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

Department of Science and Technology (DOST)

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration(PAGASA)

Advanced Science and Technology Institute(ASTI)

Science and Technology Information Institute(STII)

Science Education Institute(SEI)

Industrial Technology Development Institute(ITDI)

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology(PHILVOCS)

Food and Nutrition Research Institute(FNRI)

Forest Products Research and Development Institute(FPRDI)

Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI)

National Computer Center(NCC)

Metals Industry Research and Development Center(MIRDC)

Philippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research and Development(PCASTRD)

Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development(PCARRD)

Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development(PCAMRD)

Philippine Council for Health Research and Development(PCHRD)

Philippine Council for Industry and Energy Research and Development(PCIERD)

Philippine Textile Research Institute(PTRI)

Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI)

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)

National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)

Department of Tourism (DOT)

Philippine Tourism Authority

Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

Bureau of Product Standards(BPS)

Bureau of Trade Regulations and Consumer Protection(BTRCP)

Bureau of Small and Medium Business Development(BSMBD)

Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion(BDTP)

Bureau of Export Trade Promotion(BETP)

Bureau of Import Services(BIS)

Bureau of International Trade Relations(BITR)

Intellectual Property Office(IPO)

Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines(CIAP)

Philippine Economic Zone Authority(PEZA)

Board of Investments(BOI)

Bonded Export Marketing Board

Garments and Textile Industry Development Office (GTIDO)

National Industrial Manpower Training Council

Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC)

Land Transportation Office(LTO)

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board(LTFRB)

Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)

Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)

National Telecommunications Commission(NTC)

Air Transportation Office(ATO)

Civil Aeronautics Board(CAB)

Light Rail Transit Autority(LTRA)

Metro Rail Transit Corporation(MRTC)

Philippine National Railways (PNR)