Federal Judge’s Chamber Renovation
A comprehensive chamber renovation reconciled the security and systems requirements of a working federal courthouse with the preservation of its original terrazzo floors, double-hung windows, and historic interior character.
The renovation reconfigured a federal judge’s chamber within an active courthouse, combining new office layouts and finishes with replacement mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, IT, and security systems. The work developed from a schematic plan prepared by the U.S. Courts’ Administrative Office in consultation with the judge, then addressed competing requirements between court staff and federal preservation reviewers, particularly where the proposed plan affected the original terrazzo corridor floor. Construction was scheduled around courthouse operations so U.S. Court proceedings were not disturbed.
Historic elements were retained where they could continue to perform within the renovated chamber. Original double-hung windows were restored rather than replaced, and existing interior storm windows were retained to improve energy performance and support building security while minimizing changes to the building’s exterior appearance. Along with the preserved terrazzo flooring, these interventions allowed new systems, security requirements, and interior improvements to be integrated without obscuring the courthouse’s historic fabric.
This project was completed by John McLean while employed with Mcmillan Pazdan Smith.
