Project details:
The Cork Courts Interiors
In terms of design, the mix of new and old is a major element to the design of the new courts.
The Court Service require 6 courtrooms in the new build part of the Courthouse. The OPW design proposed “a single and simple volumetric composition containing the complex functions of the Court”. The proposed composition is comparable to a single element of limestone extruded from the earth and hewn to a design to accommodate the complexities of the court.
The Design/ Build team went to great lengths to procure a stone as close in nature and colour to the original Cork Limestone which is no longer available commercially, finally settling on a limestone heralding from Roscommon which is lighter in colour than generally available Irish limestone.
Along with the use of stone, the use of wood and in particular oak is of utmost importance to the formal and Civic nature of the building. All courtroom walls are clad in European Oak along with oak furniture. The uniformity of the material is intended to enhance the perception of formality within the courtroom while the material is functional for use in furniture.
Great attention to detail by Wilson Architecture was required to achieve the simplicity in aesthetics required in a civic building of this stature.
