Historic DC Courthouse

Originally designed by George Hadfield in 1820 to serve as Washington’s City Hall, the Historic DC Courthouse is a National Historic Landmark and a prominent structure on Judiciary Square. BBB’s restoration and expansion prepares the building for 21st-century use. Enhanced facilities, including a ceremonial courtroom, reception spaces, and attorney conference rooms are located below grade to minimize impact on the historic interiors and façade. The addition of a new ceremonial courtroom beneath the grand front portico presented complex engineering challenges. Crews constructed a steel frame onto which the weight of the portico was temporarily transferred using hydraulic jacks. BBB’s design features a new, modern pavilion that is oriented toward Judiciary Square on the north and serves as the main entrance. The entire building is now ADA-compliant with “invisibly” modernized mechanical systems and sustainable design features, such as permeable surfaces and efficient wastewater management, to reduce energy consumption.