Quick viewing(Text Mode)

Wise County Courthouse- the Preservation Ofthe Essence of the Perfect Building

Wise County Courthouse- the Preservation Ofthe Essence of the Perfect Building

WISE COUNTY COURTHOUSE- THE PRESERVATION OFTHE ESSENCE OF THE PERFECT BUILDING

by

JAMES ODELL TATE

ATHESIS

IN

ARCHITECTURE

Submitted to the Architecture Faculty of the College of Architecture of Tech University in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

BAØHELOR 9PSAR(piflJTECTURE

'Chairmain-© -me/îQmmittQe

Programming Instructor (ARCH-4000): Willard B. Robinson Design Critic (ARCH-4631): Dr. R.A.A. Petrini di Monforte

Accepted

/ .--•---—-—-^.i- — • DearafCollege of Architecture

Mí^th^ Year III w iiætioMw ©@[tJi^TO@a

Architects should not be made the convenience of contractors.

-- WISE COUNTY COURTHOUSE iraiba^ ©lî ©(£)[{^ií@cn)ií^

Title Page iii Preface V Table of Contents vii List of lllustrations ix Introduction 1 History 5 1. County of Wise 5 II. City of Decatur 7 III. James Riely Gordon 9 IV. Courthouse History 13 Goals-Objectives 17 Environmental Analysis 23 Site Analysis 30 Courthouse Environmental Quality 37 User Analysis 43 Space Parimeters 51 Economlc Feasibility 59 Implementation and Initial Detailed Costs Analysis 61 Case Studies 69 1. Henry Hobson Richardson 69 II. Museum 71 III. Marshall County Courthouse 73 IV. Henderson Mansion 75 V. Chenago County Courthouse 77 Appendixes 80 A. Courthouse History 81 B. Photo-Documentation 90 C. Design Standards 92 D. Courthouse Guidelines 96 E. Checklist for Court Facilities Design 102 F. A Selected Bibliography 111

VII

\Lm ©H Oaa[y]^ii raii3®o^^

Figures: Page

1. Wise County 4 2. Decatur 6 3. James Railey Gordon 8 4. Denton County Courthouse (1895), Architects' Drawing 10 5. Wise County Courthouse (1895-1897), Architects' Drawing 12 6. Wise County Courthouse (1895-1897), Architects' Drawing 14 7. Wise County Courthouse (1861) 15 8. Wise County Courthouse (1883) 15 9. Courthouse Roof 18 10. Courthouse Historical Markers (1964) 18 11. Clock Tower 20 12. Attic Space 20 13. Circular Staircase 21 14. Surface Geology 22 15. Annual Precipitaion 24 16. Annual Temperature 26 17. Annual Sunshine 27 18. Wind Direction (January) 28 19. Wind Direction (July) 29 20. United States 30 21. Texas' Counties 31 22. Regional 32 23. Wise County 33 24. Decatur 34 25. Town Square 35 26. Electrical Systems 36 27. Electrical and Plumbing Systems 38 28. Cooling Mechanical Systems 40 29. Lighting Systems 41 30. Texas County Organization 44 31. Commissioners Court 46 32. Judical System of Texas 48 33. Courthouse Directory 52 IX 35. Basement Breakroom 56 36. Exterior Evaluation 58 37. Pavers 60 38. Windows 62 39. Roof 62 40. Banister 64 41. Missing Wood Details 64 42. Skylight (Tower) 66 43. Attic (use as storage) 67 44. Access to Attic (stairs) 67 45. Hampden County Courthouse 68 46. San Antonio Museum of Art 70 47. Marshall County Courthouse 72 48. Henderson Mansion 74 49. Chenago County Courthouse 76 mm ©mimni ©©^m\i^©m a[^TO@[D)[lOCT[](S)[l^

Old buildings remind us of the past and provide a vision of a brighter future through knowing our past.

Rehabilitation, is it a viable alternative to new construction? As clients become better educated with their physical surroundings, they have become to demand a quality of architecture that existed. Architecture should serve the clients purpose and needs, not to satisfy some designers ideals. The past is a guide to the future and the public has begun a renaissance to preserve that architecture which is visually appealling, however serves their purpose.

Preservation and adaptive reuse have established themselves as alternatives for architectural practice. Preservation implies the maintenance of the structure to as close as possible to its same physical condition as when it was received by its original occupants. Nothing is to be added or subtracted as to distract from the original aesthetic physical qualities of the structure's exterior. Therefore, any interventions necessary to preserve its physical integrity are to be cosmetically unobtrusive. Adaptive reuse is an economic way in which a structure can be utilized to its maximum potential for service facilities. This could sometimes involve fairly radical interventions, especially in the interior organization of spaces.

To preserve Wise County's Courthouse from further deteriation is this design thesis proposal. The preparation of this program provides the first realistic opportunity to extablish goal and objectives, and project initial costs. The idea for selecting the Wise County Courthouse for a thesis is to study presevation procedures for future professional implementations. The intention is to study the historical features, evaluate current conditions, and propose solution to fufill those conditions. Although the courthouse is not in need of immediate repair it is crucial to evaluate current deteriation for future repair. The impending future of this structure depends upon the promotion of local interest that can be generated today.

Wise County's Courthouse serves as a socialogical focal point for Decatur and Wise County. Both have flambouyant historical pasts and the courthouse serves as a physical reminder of this. Pride of this structure is a reasonable explanation of why its preservation is essential for the community. Therefore the prime objective is the stabilization and protection of the exterior surfaces.

A courthouse facility requires space relationships, circulation patterns, security, flow control, accoustics, communications, and lighting requirements to be resolved. The program sets demands that must be resolved in the design phase

The need for additional space for governmental activities is a increasing problem. Current underutilization of existing spaces could be remendied through a comprehensive environmental evaluation. A design solution could provide the required space within the confines of the courthouse itself. The possibility of injecting new orgnaizational activities into existing areas is the secondary objective. This process includes the evaluation of activities and the reuse and/or modernization of the built facilities.

To just copy existing design characters would provide uneventful architecture. To depart from the existing ornamentation while prescribing Gordon's philosophies will create pleasing design current to today's standards.

Incentives for this program is not only to preserve a historical structure (one that has been deemed architectural perfect) rather, to demostrate that proper design methods can extablish cost effiecent alternatives to new construction. Figure 1. Wise County, 1856. ^asTO^v

©@[U)[i^w ©\F wmm

Located in north central Texas.Wise County was originally a part of Grayson County until 1856 and a part of Cooke County until 1856. Created by the Texas Legislature on January 23, 1856 from Cooke County, it was named for Untied States Senator Henry A. Wise of Virginia, who had favored annexation of Texas.

Originally named Taylorsville for President Zachary Taylor, Decator was renamed after Absolam Bishop became disillussioned with Taylor. It has served as the seat of the county government since its was organized in 1856. Four court houses have adorned the hill in Decatur.

Settlement of the county began in 1854 when Sam Woody, a Tennessean, led a small group of homesteaders into the area which was then still occupied by Delaware indians. The first federal census in 1860 counted 3,160 inhabitants in Wise County. As the county developed, the population expanded to an high mark in 1900 of 27,116, before beginnig a steady decline until 1960 when the county's population began to increase.

Early transportation routes which passed through the county affected its development. These included the Butterfield Overland Mail Route in the late 1850's and the famous Chisholm Trail in 1860's and 1870's. In 1882 the Fort Worth and Denver Railroad Company expanded its tracks into the county creating major grouth. A second railroad, the Rock Island, began service in Wise County in 1893.

Other noteworthy facts about Wise County include the following infomation: Decatur was the second largest town in the county. It served as the home of the nation's oldest junior college (Decatur Baptist College) from 1891 to 1964. The Dust Bowl Era brought the establishment of the Cross Timber National Grassland, which is located in the north central part of the county. Wise County is presently a major producer of oil and gas and is a leading dairy center. WISE COUNTY TEXAS Carved from Cooke County 1 856 Named for Henry A. Wíse Virginia Statesmon

Figure 2. Decatur, 1854. ©[iw @^ [D)i©Æ^ir[io[^

Settlement of Decatur begin in 1854. The first settler was Sam Woody who built a log cabin approximately six miles south of the current town. Early settlers of this region were often harassed by outlaws and raiding Commanches. These outbreaks were eventually stopped by the famous Texas Rangers and U. S. Calvary Troops. Peace and order brought on economic boom in the area.

The Chisholm Trail and railroads provided additional inspriration to a growing economy in the form of construction work and commerce. This development brought social, political, and economic prosperity to the area. The land characteristics and the addition of the railroad combined with the livestock and livestock products to influence the growth of the predominantly agricultural economy.

The railroad also brought other influences to the town, one of which was the gambling trade. Gamblers however did not stay long enough to seriously effect the stablility of the economy. They did however bring lasting notoriety to the town. "Eighter from Decatur, County Seat of Wise" originated during their stay and even today is recalled in many gambling situations.

Today Decatur has committed its gambling history to the past and has earned a good reputation. It is a leading dairy center of Texas; a banking and commercial center for the area; and a major oil and gas production area. The town and area continue to grow today providing expanded capabilities for commerce, industry, and new residents.

A community profile has been provided by the Chamber of Commerce. DECATUR • A WISE INVESTMENT

GENERERAL INFORMATION Education - The Decatur Independent School District is recognized as one of the finest Class 3A school systems in the State. The district has four separate schools, for elementary, middle, junior high and high school students. Total enroliment is 1,500 students. Many higher educational facilities with 60 minutes of Decatur are: Southern Methodist University, Texas Christian University, North Texas State University, Texas Women's University, University SAN ANTONIO EXFRESS: THURSDAY MORNÍNG. FEBRUARY 10. 1027. Archited for Federal Building ; 1 I Old Court Hotise Back After 25 Years, Åmazed at Citys Growth

] toi-iuni Cz rhat the cîtv has built f. I aiid it is tlift property of Í II túe pt:o- i pîe, a l helîjed pay for it au flîl riin I enjoy U. It Ís beautifuiJy p!anr.e(i uud ' r^ell co i'^trucípd. Í "J v.--i.< .^fi-uck ^rirli ihc .-virit vî co- ' operatîun I fouuJ herc. ali •workinc: lo-.ra 'd Ihe íírov.'lh of i^:\n Antcnío. I havt' talkf*n to ni.'íny of my o d fr oiids h'ÍJiL'C my íiirival aiid I fiuu íliem »11 a nn i f'ír \h^ welfare oî' thc cîty. 'J'lioy ; all seeni back oi the prcsent adminis-! triJiion ai l tiu're peems tu be no fao-| fiunai fiirîu^. With that St'irit the 1 cily c.mnoi' Ij'.'Ip líut do bisr thing.s. | *'I fonnd tbp city has lost siome of j )f"S uUî-tiine c'caini vi-hich I onco loved. Thc ytrt't't widtn iií; pro ram und the many new buiMÍMíís have lîeceís îrited tc.'iriní dovni soine of tlic pícturcsqup. old structurep. bnt tlils mnvt be to mai:c Tvay for pr(»gre^s. "Ilon-ever. I found íhe .';nme i^encr- ous 01 t i IJ re- main^.. f-rly Ít is show;) i.ii i bi ger v>-ay. That has ahv:iys bern .i parl of tí.'in Ant'jnin Lnd always v.ii] b-?." Go;-don is a ^'uf!>t of hÍ5 í-í^î'Lor and bro her-ii:-bw. Jud e and Mv.^. A. Vr. Secii;'Non. v.-Iiil<* in tho (.•ity. fl ) 1U 3 /V \J\ii ».jr\J -Uthoush hr> ha? boen awuy from .Saii Antoniû 25 ycar.-í. many of tiie Jiin e.s lîioly Goríjuii. f"rm"r San v.-crli? of GiTilon are .stiîl pMÍntcd owt Aniorji'j maii, i '-w a ."urH-J archicoct h'-ri' iviíh pride. The inosft uotable ex- oí Xew \oTb, •vra.s astoundc-d ;it vbat cmple is Bcxar County courthouse. líe found here after an absenco oC -7t \^-hich he pbinucd and is novr bein? Tcarí. hc tleclaretl 'Wednesdar- It v.as doub ed in f.izo. n plauning the ad" hi.s fir^t Tisit h.ero sincc niovin; to dition the Bexar County Commi RÍon- New York, and Gort on sai-l h? did not er C-ourt provided that tha í»am€ ityle believe t)jore is a c ty in the •n'orld selected by Gordon be retained. The that has ^frown f.s iSan Autonio has iu prescní buildins has bren outprown. the lasc 25 years. buc its archíteotural liues nre still I "Xot onl.7 haij San Antonio pro- considereíl as bcauafui as Avheu it gressed/* Gordon said, "but it has vcas firíît erectod. beantifully proírreíísed. I haro been Another eiamplc îs the Federal charmed •v^ith the architectural benuty BuihUnî, also outsrown, but stiU ad- oi fiome of the new buildinga. e.'ípe- mired. cJally íhe AluiiicipaJ AuOitorium aad Gordon said he has been trying to the í

Figure 3. James Riely Gordon, 1863-1937. of Texas at Arlington, Texas Wesleyan College, Weatherford College, Cooke County Junior College as well as others. Health Care - Modern medîcal care facilities include on 50 bed hospital, 5 private clinics, medical doctors, dentists, and optometrist, 3 convalescent homes, and around the clock ambulance service. Utilities - Lone Star Gas Company, Texas Power and Light Co., Wise Electric CO-OP Inc, Central Telephone and Municipal water. Churches - 15 churches representing 9 major denominations' are located in the city. Government Services - Decatur operates under a mayor, councilmen and city manager form of government. Five full time policemen and 30 volunteer firemen with the latest equipment serve Decatur, Wise County's government offices as well as many other government agencies are located in the city. Financial Facilities - The financial needs of the community are served by the First National Bank of Decatur (deposits of $57,500,000) and Olney Savings (assets of $608,000.000). Transportation - Decatur is served by the Fort Worth and Denver Railroad and the Continental Trailways bus line. Decatur has its own municipal airport and h within 60 minutes of 3 commercial airports, one of which is the -Fort Worth Regional Airport. Agriculture & Industry - Decatur is in the heart of the rich Boonsville-Bend oil and gas conglomerate. In 1983 oil production was 14.9 million barrels. Gas productîon was 70.3 mcf for 1983. Total farm sales were $53 million for '83. Wise is the third largest dairy county in Texas. Major graphite products maker k in Decatur as is a custume seat manufacturer. Recreation - Decatur is the home of the Wise County Youth Fair, the largest such event in Texas. The Youth Fair is staged the first week in April. There is an annuaí quarter horse show, annual roping and cutting horse contest. Summer activities include Chisholm Trail Days and the Wise County Sheriffs Posse rodeo, the Wise County Old Settlers Reunion, and the annual July 4 celebration. Other annual events include the District Singing Convention and the Decatur Baptist College homecoming. Buildings on the Posse Grounds, valued at more than $1 million, are available for rental as are three pavilions at the reunion grounds. Little Theater productions are staged twice each year. Little League and Pee Wee football, soccer and basketball programs and a dairy festival in August. Decatur Senior Citizen's Center serves meals at noon five days a week (Monday through Friday). Decatur has two city parks, and two lighted baseball fields. The Decatur Country Club has a 9 hole golf course and tennis facilities. The Decatur Independent School operates a public swimming pool and school tennis facilities are available for community use. The Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands are located 10 miles north of Decatur. This federal park area contains 20,323 acres. Hunting, fishing, boating, open to the public year around, including overnight camping in the city with 150 hook-ups. Decatur is the home of the Wise County Heritage Museum, the former administration building of Decatur Baptist College, the world's oldest junior college. The musuem houses a gift shop, archive, and many interesting historical exhibits. The Wise County courthouse, located in Decatur, has been described as one of the ten outstanding courthouses in Texas by Texas Monthly magazine. (A.l. D, Associates, pamplet)

Jlgio^@^ ^M"^ @®or(sl®On)

The Slli day of Jan., 1885, Wise County's courthouse was destroyed by fire at 5:30 o'clock. The 41ii day of March, 1885, from the 10 submitted plans, the contract was to be awarded to J. Riely Gordon of San Antonio.

Born in Winchester, Virginia (1863), Gordon moved with his parents to San Antonio in 1874. While growing up and working ^AN ANTIHIQTGX. GEM3PN caiJNTY CíiXMr MWiC.

TAIRD rijRC. PLAN. :ÍCALE. >*-iMr

Figure 4. Denton County Courthouse, proposed 1895. J. Riely Gordon, architect. Courtesy of the School of Architecture, UT-Austin. 10 Dnetiy ín San Antonio, Gordon developed an interest in the way structures respond to their climates. Of the possible sixteen courthouses designed in Texas and documented in the Gordon Archives, twelve still stand.

Gordon had the ability to adapt the Revival Style of architecture to the climate and social conditions of Texas. The Romanesque style allowed Gordon to experiment with the colors and textures of native Texas building materials to arrive at a dramatic details and ornamentation of his structures. The courthouses of his design are monumental in their appearence. They also serve their primary function of providing space for governmental services well.

Gordon's courthouses evolved over a five-year period. He copyrighted this plan and was to submit a basic scheme of it (figure 4) for at least ten courthouses, eight of which would be built between the year 1894-1899. Each individual project would differ significantly in the choice of materials and detail complexity, but all featured variations of his copyrighted plan. So far, however, this copyright has not been located.

The basis of the Gordon's courthouse plan was one of a cruciform configuration. This plan allowed entrances to be placed at the intersection diagonals of the two major rectangular blocks of the building. These entrances opened directly into a square court onto which the various offices and chambers opened.

The cruciform plan was conventional and conformed with the town square, thus allowing the entrances to be located as far from the hot street as possible. Gordon also specified vegetation to reduce noise levels from surrounding activities.

Fire-proofing was another essential feature of Gordon. He used heavy construction methods combining steel or iron, concrete, and hard-pressed high-fired tile, avoiding the use of wood except for trim. This procedure provided interrupted fire protection, eliminating the possibilities of creating paths for fires.

Gordon was a designer that utilized natural ventilation methods. Basements were deep enough to capture the coolness of the surrounding earth, yet still allowed natural light through openings. These openings provided access for breezes to be drawn in expanding as they rose and absorbing additional heat. 11 i\

vaufr v-'-o- vlJC^pONTV COUBT HOuit

Figure 5. Wise County Courthouse, Decatur, 1895-1897. J. Riely Gordon, architect. Courtesy of the School of Architecture, UT-Austin.

12 To farther enhance air circulation, Gordon organized masses to collect whatever air movement occurred. Gordon avoided the use of flat surfaces and established air "funnels". As summer ground temperatures rise they create updrafts combining with horizontal breezes to form a upward movement draft. As these drafts pass through the narrow openings they give up heat to the thermal masses. Once the drafts enter they expand absorbing heat as they rise. The drafts are then ventilated through the central tower. During the cooler months, closing off the structure allows the thermal masses to effectively retain heat. (James Riely Gordon Collections)

Wise county, to the present date has had four courthouse. The first of these was a log cabgin built by Henry Martin, which stood not far of what now is Charles and Hatcher streets in Decatur. This sixteen foot square cabin was moved to the northeast corner of the square. The next courthouse was a wood frame structure built on the square. This structure meet unusual circumstances on November 26 îh.., 1881 when it burned. The third courthouse, the second built, was situated on the northwest corner of the square. This too was a wood frame structure and originally had a guard posted to prevent a fire from starting and to remove records in case of one. This practice was discontinued and the result was the structure burned on January 8 Ih.., 1885.

The present day courthouse, the forth, was designed by J. Railey Gordon and has been pronounced architectural perfect by some (Richardson Romanesque style design). Its only rivilaries are those in Ellis and Bexar County, both designs of Gordoh also. It serves as a landmark for the surrounding areas and has a commanding heigh of 1112 feet.

The courthouse was to be as fire-proof as possible. The exterior surface components were to be comprised of the best quality granite of two colors as selected from quarries near Burnet. These stones were to be formed and shaped at the quarry, numbered, and then shipped and placed in their appropriate place at the site. Terra Cotta detailed freeze completed the wall surfaces.

The roof and sides of the dome were to have heavy paper tacted

13 gocDONAacnY .!)OUTH CIÍVATION '^y cpuMTv couCT Mouae

Figure 6. Wise County Courthouse, Decatur, 1895-1897. J. Riely Gordon, archiîect. Courtesy of the School of Architecture, UT-Austin.

14 down and covered with Blue Bangor Slate. Gutters were to be made of 16 ounce copper. Windows frames were to be oak with 1/4" polished plate glass. The skylight is 3/8" ribbed glass with trimmings of stainless steel.

Floors were to be Vermont marble mosaic tiles. The tiles were comprised of four different colors which were laid in Portland cement with distinctive lines formed between the colors. This was known as Tutti Colors Michatti. (Court minutes, p.91) Other materials used to _ complement interior spaces were venetian blinds, bronze hardware, and flagstaff oak. The staircase, stingers, and trimmings were to be made of steel.

One of the outstanding features of the courthouse is the E. Howard and Company clock, described as thus: No. 1 Hour Strike Clock for $952.00, Bell $388.00- for a total of $1,340.00. Guaranteed free from all original defects and to run with proper care and regulation within one minute per month. Beats one and half seconds instead of seconds as do other makes. (Courts minutes, p.181)

Changes that have occorded since it completion are few. Among these include the removal of the attic water tank, the addition of a floor in the balcony area of the courtroom, the electric mechanism of the clock, and the sandblasting of the exterior surface to give a clean appearance.

The modernization of the structure included the addition of a exterior ramp, air conditioning, insulated windows and a elevator. Finally, the exterior was illuminated at night by mercury flood lamps. The addition of the lamps enhanced the courthouse allowing it beauty to be viewed either day or night.

Residents of Wise County and Decatur are emmensally proud of their courthouse. Their civic pride is shown through their enthusiasm to display the courthouse to visitors to the area.

" •>•'.-' '

rrA-""' * ••' í • V •—

••••âKîl I >/^^.:/M 5t^..:.-:ii:is£=

,__ C^^''*'^^ 15 Courthouse (1861). Courthouse (1883).

A checklist to establish the feasibility for this preservation project is as follows. The steps are for a general observation pretaining to the Wise County Courthouse.

1. A diagnosis of the structure and evaluate currently used spaces. The owner must be considered if you show a interest in seeing the structure preserved.

2. The current condition of the structure will determine preservation feasibility. A survey of the structure, facade conditions, windows and interior conditions are the beginning steps.

3. The neighborhood and the effects it will have upon the redevelopment of the structure or the effects of the structure upon the surrounding neighborhood.

4. Get the public involved. A sense of something is happening in the community. Popular support often is connected to financial support. An opinion from a architectural historian will often increase support.

5. Check for financial backing. State and financial programs may offer opportunities for backing.

6. Future operating expenses to consider whether high operating costs will lose money offsetting preservation savings.

7. The costs for the architectural fee may be more than the usual amounts. Survey works or the design phase may uncover unexpected problems.

8. A contractor that is familar with preservation remodeling work should be involved with the project as a consultant before drawings are prepared. (Kidney, pp.4-15)

Goals set procedures for the implementation of preservation for the Wise County Courthouse. The goals will define the desired direction; objectives define the desired accomplishment. 17 Figure 9. Courthouse Roof, photo by author.

^^'--'^ / : /-•c/''' '^//^i*^-..^:'•'••''• /t.^'i. -• '.•-^; •'<,••••• ^'"••:•?.-"•-..•* /'^••:^:'Z:-u^/-:•'••'• •'•'•>'.*'-''• :: '•/.•' •••''' '• •-••• - '>;'•• •""'• "'^ •^•^ ••'-

FigurelO. Courthouse Historical Markers (1964), photo by author.

18 Adhere to the followlng presevatlon manuals:

1- A Courthouse Cf^nservation Handbook- National Trust for Historic Presevation. 2. Restorina Old Builriinas for Contempararv Uses- Shopsin. 3. A Guide to the Maintenance. Repair. and Alteration of Historic Buildinas- Stahl. 4. "Preservation Practice"- Committee on Historic Resources.

Identlfy deteriated and areas that requlre attentlon of exterlor facade and surface condltlons:

1. To photograph and document exterior surfaces. Identify parts to be removed and replaced. Protecting all original work to remain and matching original work. 2. To evaluate roof conditions for possible replacement or adhering to original documented design. 3. To determine a solution for the applied fire-escape. 4. To repair clock and mechanisms. 5. To return to natural ventation. 6. To establish standards of craftmanship in reproducing original work of masonory and/or joints.

The analyzatlon of present space needs and future growth and propose a loglcaí increase In usuable space, with offices assigned functionally Into that space.

1. To evaluate unused spaces for possible additional floor areas. 2. To evaluate current office spaces for future expansions. 3. To adhere to building codes without sacrificing overall appreance.

A response to the need for addltlonal storage areas:

1. To offer alternatives to current storage procedures of county documents. 2. To evaluate the possible addition of a main-frame computer system.

Identify possible sources for fundlng:

1. To promote community involvement.

19 Figure 11. Clock Tower, photo by auíhor.

Figure 12. Attic Space, photo by author.

20 2. To solicite private donations. 3. To locate state and/or federal funding or propose contractor tax incentives.

The resulting proposal for modernization should meet all code requirements for life safety and should be handicapped accessible, while maitaining the integrity and dignity of the courthouse.

/ '

Figure 13. Circular Staircase, photo by author.

21 ^r^^n^^nr'^

Sourcc: T«jiat Agricultura) Cxp«r(fn*nt Station, Types of Farming m Texas, Bullttin 964, 1960.

^ GRAND PRAIRIE Uplands—Dark-colored, deep-to-shallow and stony calcareous clays over limestone. Bottomland3--ReddÍ3h-brown to dark-gray clay loams and clays.

L2*:^ WEST CROSS TIMBERS Light-colored. slightly acid aandy loamfl, loamy sands, and sands.

Figure 14. Surface Geoiogy. 22 The general climate classification of Wise County is Subtropical Subhumid which is characterized by hot summer with moderate winters. Decatur has relative long warm summers with moderate winters.

Wise County is precariously situated between two geological regions. Decatur is located somewhat to the east of the line, however both environmental factors are to be examined. The two specific regions are broken down into the Cross Timbers and Grand Praire regions. The Cross Timbers region is located west of Decatur with the Grand Prairie region contains Decatur.

Wlse Countv: County Seat: Decatur Latitude: 33.19* N. Longitude: 97.35* W. County Population: 20,699 Sq. Miles: 922 Person Per Mile: 22.45

Cross Tlmbers:

Soil Conditions: Order: Alfisols- Light colored surface layer over developed, more clayey subsoil. Moderate to high base saturation. Suborder: Ustalfs- Usually moist however may be dry more than 90 cumulative days per year. Great Group: Palenstalfs- Very deep subsoil on mottled clayey or loamy subsoils.

Annual Rainfall: 28-38 inches.

Setting: Regolith- Sandy to clayey, acid to alkaline marine sediments. Relief- Nearly level to undulating.

Vegetation: Post Oak, Black Jack Oak, tall Praire Grass, Savanna.

Limitations: Wind erosion curing extended dry periods with water 23 AVERAGE ANNUAL PRECIPITATION Inlnches, 1951-1980

J"^ 26

Figure 15. Average Annual Precípitation. (íncnes)

24 erosion.

Major Land Uses: Urban residences; pasture and cropland; woodland grazing.

Grand Pralrie:

Soil Conditions: Order: Mollisols- Very dark colored surface layer, relatively high organic matter; high base status thoughout. Suborder: Ustolls- Seasonally moist; dry in some areas more than 90 cumulative days per year. Great Group: Calciustolls- Distinct Lime (CaCO) accumulation within 40 inches depth; surface layer grades to underlying layer with no or little increase in clay content.

Annual Rainfall: 18-34 inches.

Setting: Regolith- Calcareous, clayey and loamy materials over indurated limestome, interbedded linstone and marls; calcareous, clayey outwash. Relief- Level to hilly.

Vegetation: Bunch & Short Grass, Live Oaks, Savanna Junipers, cacti, and some Mesquites.

Limitations: Bedrock or interbedded rock and marls at depths of 10-40 inches, except for the deep Tobosa soils; high shrink-swell potential; high corrosion potential; local steep slopes; stoniness.

Major Land Uses: Range; crops; wildlife; recreation.

Source of information General Soil Map of Texas.

25 AVERAGE ANNUAL TEMPERATURE {°F) 1951-1980

Figure 16. Average Annual Temperature. (*F)

26 ALL NUMBERS REPRESENT PERCENTAGES

Sourot: Texas Stata Climctoiogist, U.S. Weathor Bureau, Austin, Texas, 1966.

Figure 17. Mean Annual Possible Sunshine. (%)

27 Figure 18. Percentage Frequencies of Wind Direction. (January)

28 AMARILLO

Percsntao* Cilm —«*n»i W

WSW

Wind Diraction SouthMft 26% of Month

kxircs: Texas State Climatologitt, U.S. Weather Bui u, Austin, Texas, 1966.

Figure 19. Percentage Frequencies of Wind Direction. (July)

29 TAMAULIPAS ID O 0

- Si —

o. •

«-^ o. LÍ/WV o.

- - co bo^ />vm. ^ / 3 i\ í

r

Fiaure 21. Counties of Texas. 31 Afdmorel í^—îi-^y^

. Cdnlø Aimd

[m ' ''o"*'"* yií'l Groeslei Voss ^ --'l . fc " /' Trickhafii| \ Gouldbusli ( BrooMsmrth ' Rochwood Wmchell "/7 Star, \ S's"' ^Oglesb'y, ' "\ y. I' Meitury M;LLS ' ^-^ : Holine n\ COF--/ELL- '^ \íiJ-\/ _. 'írBwCe'v,lM, rh,.'*''^M ^^^^ Dooie -J 1 70\ , AdamivV The CfovV\ "Å^^^ '•'^* ''> / ^*^i.'^ ' ' Richland Spnngs Tro)f ' y^^c iTED STATES "NT OF THE ;NTEP:( 3C:CAL SJPVEV ^ ^^ *J

øæø {//////://// '/L\//\ I ^o ir^/ æ [Jti L 5: m •øa 3.] L% ULiiJí^H gqæRF f ^f^^: "^n ^gtlar^J^îcatur.

Í L___. Figure 26. Electrical Systems, photo by author.

36 IVIechanical Systems: The use and placement of mechanical systems in a courthouse does not have to reduce the quality of the environment. A quality environment should meet the occupants ability to work efficently. A major part of specifying a workable mechanical system is to locate spaces to house them. Opportunities exist for their placement into abandoned spaces such as air shafts, chimneys, attic spaces, stand pipes, and electrical conduits. (Preservation Press, p.31)

Electrical Systems: Outmoded systems simply cannot substain today's demands. Peacemeal approaches cannot suffice, only encouraging entangled masses and also are a fire hazard. A throrough inspection of all wiring and circuits is an essential first step. Revamping the electrical system to meet code requirements is the next step. Finally, the possibilities of incorporating an electrical safety system into the structure should be considered. (Preservation Press, p.31)

Plumbíng: Evaluate the current conditions of existing situations. This should include inspection for evidence of leaks or corrosion. Fixtures should function properly. The structure's hot water system should meet current and future demands. Installation of new systems should be as unobtrusive as possible. Large components should be installed in unused areas, through easily accessible. Visible components should blend into surrounding areas.

Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning: Most existing environmental control units are inadequate to meet current requirements. Consideration for a total reevaluation of the environmental needs is essential. Providing a comfortable environment for the visitor as well as its occupants without sacrificing the interior spaces is the major concern. (Preservation Press, p.32)

37 Figure 27. Electrical and Plumbing Systems, photo by author.

38 Lighting and Acoustics: A standard definition for lighting is; proper lighting levels provide the required amount of light per given task. Therefore different levels of lighting may exist in different areas or even the in the same area depending upon the demand. A level of comfort for office procedures is some what brighter than yesteryears lamps, however lower than that provided by fluorescent lamps. A examination of existing fixtures should conclude whether supplementary lighting will be required. Often only rewiring of fixtures to accommodate higher wattage lamps will suffice, however indirect amblient light may be needed. it might be desirable to obtain period fixtures to replace those which may have been removed. New fixtures should be as unobtrusive as possible. Task lighting from direct sources provide the most efficient way of lighting. These fixtures are to be placed at the level of the task. This procedure helps to fulfill the immediate need while natural llghting, means for direct sunlight, complement the spaces. (Preservation Press, p.33-38)

Acoustics and acoustical properties tend to be one of the most neglected enironmental qualities. The period of which most of the designs conform too, courthouses had to compete with environmental sources that are not generally known today. Therefore today minimal standards for a proper working environment are generally not met. Noise sources from the mechanical systems, vehicular trafic, interior corridors, and task performances make courthouses and courtrooms unpleasant. There is also a tendency to have inadequate voice amplification methods which futher distracts from the audioability of the facilities. The analyzation and formulation of an acoustical plan as well as the use of sound-absorbing materials throughout the structure will reduce levels to a acceptable level. Variations of implementation procedures can be justified due to the character of the spaces. Draperies and carpeting provide the maximum effects. Lowering the ceiling for acoustic purposes tends to distract from the original architectural character. Other methods should be sought first. (Preservation Press, p.33-38)

Space Planning and Management: A crucial goal for determining the feasibility of preserving a courthouse is space 39 Figure 28. Cooling Systems, photo by author.

40 planning. Space planning would provide a solution to meet the demands that continue to increase the county's workload, therefore rendering the courthouse inefficient. A space plan should evaluate possible future additions and accomodate for them. New structures are not neccessarly the answer to provide additional space. A successful beginning for a space management program is to evaluate current relationships between the courthouse occupants and its departments. The second step is to consider- the possibility of usuable spaces. These are the basement and the attic. If these spaces are not currently being occuppied efficiently their potential are significant. Benifits are costs and their direct interlinking to existing spaces. Courtrooms and their large spaces are a place for rearrangment. Today's courts and procedures are different than when considered originally. Jury spaces should be enlarged to accommodate juriest more easily.

Figure 29. Lighting, photo by author. 41 42 iUSl^ Æ^O^/^LVSa^

Texas is divided into 254 counties. This shear number implies variety in their implicated governments. Their foundations are rooted in the state's constitution which sets out a basic organization pattern. This is due to the fact that countless county operations must be authorized by state law. Counties are responsible for administering county finances; recording vital statistics; conducting general and special elections; preserving law and order; administrating justice through the courts; constructing county roads; and providing for public health and welfare.

The diversity of county governments and how they operate can be broken down into various functions.

Maior Functions of Countv Government

Administer County Finances Record Vital Statics Conduct Elections Preserve Law and Order Administer Justice Construct and Maintain Roads Provide for Public Health and Welfare

Elected County Officials

County Judge County Commissioners Sheriff County Attorney District Clerk County Clerk Justice of the Peace Treasurer Constable Tax Assessor-Collector Surveyor

General Government:

The general government of a county consist of the following branches, each of which can be broken down into specific duties 43 Texas County Organization

SOURCE: Robert E, Norwood, Texas County Governmenv Let îhe People Choose (Austin: Texas Research League, 1970).

Figure 30. Texas County Organization.

44 and responsibilities: County Judge, County Commissioners, Commissioners Court, County Clerk, and Boards, Commissions, and Committees.

The general operations of an county government is overseen by the commissioners court. The court consist of four commissioners, each elected from their respective precinct, and is overlooked by the county judge.

County Judge: The county judge is elected on a countywide bases, and is the chief executive officer for the county. The judge represents the county by being a figurehead and serving on boards and committees. The judge has a variety of other duties and responsibilities depending upon the size on the county.

County Commissioners: Each Texas county is divided into four precincts. A commissioner is elected from each precinct and their duties are carried out as a part of their participation in the commissioners court. In most counties, each commissioner is responsible for construction and maintenance of county roads within his precinct. This includes overseeing equipment and staff.

Commissioners Court: The commissioners court is not a judical court, rather a general govering body of the county. This court is responsible for the county compling with state laws and responds to the needs of the residents.

Maior Duties of the Commissioners Court

set tax rate and adopt county budget appoint county officials and hire personnel fill elective and appointed vacancies establish voting precincts, appoint precinct judges, and cal county bond elections let contracts and authorize payments of all county bills build and maintain county roads and bridges build, maintain, and improve county facilities including juries provide for libraries, hospitals, and public welfare

County Clerk: Many of the general county governmental duties are handled by the countyclerk. The county clerk provides 45 jUDGE Commissíoners Commissioners

éSÊk& Ak éBlk AMéak Ja

^^^^M«Mi« ••)l«lllllll«lllllll

COMMISSIONERS COURT

Figure 31. Commissioners Court.

46 administative support for meetings of the court as well as carrying out court-directed actions. The clerk files, indexes, and records all legal documents affecting real property. Also other miscellaneous lincensing and recording requirements.

Adult-Juvenile Probation: The probation department works with both the law enforcement officials and the courts. The probation officer is responsible for probationeers from both the district and county courts. The responsibility of the officer is to counsel probationers and to help them find a job if necessary. If a probationer breaks a rule, then it is the resposibility for the officer to notify the judge and through proper hearing procedures, determine a course of action.

Law Library: The law library is maintained to make legal materials available to local judges, litigants, and lawyers. This is funded through a special tax. The exact amount is set by the commissioners court and charged in civil cases. The fee is collected by the county clerk as part of the court costs and deposited solely for support of the county law library.

District Clerk: The District Clerk is elected by qualified voters to fufill the space for district courts. The responsibilities of the District Clerk is to record and preserve materials pretaining to district court activities. These records shall include felony grade cases, suits on behalf of the United States, official misconduct, trails on property, and ect....

District Attorney: The District Attorney is required by law were deemed necessary. This officer is elected for a term of four years and serves on all criminal cases in the district courts.

Justice of the Peace: Original beginnings are with the Texas Constitution. The office has jurisdiction in criminal matters not to exceed $200 and civil matters where amounts in controversy is $200 or less. Often "refered as the poor man's court". (Inventory of County Records, p.5) The Justice of the Peace is empowed to issue writs, all warrants, arraign criminal prisoners, and to hold preliminary hearings.

Tax Assessor-Collector: The function of the Tax Assessor- Collector is to assess the value of propery and to collect taxes within the county. Other responsibility are issuing and collecting fees for automobile

47 Judícial System in Texas

Court of Criminal Appeals

Court of Civil Appeals

«îe

Uá*ééâ*éé^åUúá!ÊÍúUi!úíáÍiU^iÍ 1 l;,;,;,;,;,;,;!;,;,;^^!*,;,;^;^^;^;^;^;^;^

:s

,j^»,i,i.i.j_i,i,",;i_i.

rr' :Vî'i'''''''iVh' Administered & financed by the county

Municipal Courts ; the Peace Courts ? 'MlíiÚiííiiiUåáááiiuÍmlíííÚiiîiiÚi^ÍÍÍlÍi^

SOURCE; Texas Judicial Council, Office of Court Administration, Forty-Ninth Annual Report, May 1978, p. 36.

Figure 32. Judical System of Texas.

48 registration and transfers of title. Collecting sales taxes on automobiles sales and registering all voters in the county.

Sheriff: The office of Sheriff can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon heritage of English Speaking people. Today's Sheriff office is the chief law enforcement officer of the county. The Sheriff is the chief peace officer of the county, also an officer of both the county and district courts. The Sheriff is also charged with the responsibility of maintaining the county jail and of its prisoners.

Source of infomation: Inventory of County Records, Wise County Courthouse and An Introduction to Texas County Government.

49

S[g)a©@ ^giorS n i@ií®or@

Each courthouse built has its own uniqueness and each has different spatial requirements.

With this in mind, presently housed offices are to remain with the preconceptional idea that other county offices might be relocated into the courthouse with the increase of square footage. This increase in area is obtained through the design of the attic space.

Space Parimeters:

Activity: Adult-Juvenile probation: (Current location) Third floor. Personnel: Probation Officer and two full-time secretaties. Space Requirements: Private office for Officer, space for support staff, and file area. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for 3-4 persons, computer terminal, file storage.

Activity: Child-support: Second floor. Personnel: Three full-time staff. Space Requirements: Space for staff and file area. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for 3-4 persons, computer terminals, file storage.

Activity: Commissioners Office: First floor. Personnel: Commissioner and one-secretary. Space Requirements: Commissioner's office and area for support staff. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for two persons, and file storage.

Activity: Commissioners: Court: Third floor. Personnel: County Judge and four commissioners. Space-Requirements: None. Conditions: Meeting area to accomodate at least twenty visitors.

Activity:

51 C0URTH0U8E OIRECTORY OFFICC FLOOR

THtNO •fCOfiO riiiiT THIRO THmo FIIIOT THIIVO PIRtT flCCONO •CCONO tCCONp BASCHCMT •ASCHCHT MSCHCNT

: XâX OFFICI •OITH TMMurr |OaNONTH TRIMITT AUTD NCeBTKAnON TAX AStCStOH COLI MCSTAL HCALTH CSHrCR ROMIt BUILOIM ANNIX tOS CAST HALNUr • Ot NONTM tTATt OVtOrMIMAN IICSOUIICIl: COUNTT ASINT NCk^AffC omccf JUtTlCI OP TMC nACC COUNTT AUOITON tOClALIICUNITT COIMTrnVVAOURCIt vrriNANt AOM.

Figure 33. Courthouse Directory, photo by author.

52 County Attorney: Third floor. Personnel: Attorney and one-secretary. Space Requirements: Private office, private library, and space for support staff. Conditions: Secretary's desk, data filing and waiting area for two persons.

Activity: County Clerk: First floor. Personnel: Clerk and three full-time support staff. Space Requirements: Private office for Clerk, adjacent space for abstract personnel and walk-in-vault. Conditions: Desks for staff, counter area, waiting area for 3-4 persons, copy machine, computer terminals.

Activity: County Court of Law: Third floor. Personnel: Judge, Baliff, Court Reporter, and Receptionist. Space Requirements: Judge's bench, Court Reporter, witness stand, attorney desks, audience with seating capacity of 30-40 persons. Conditions: Judges bench, staff desks, attorney desks, Court Reporters desk, seating for 30-40 persons.

Activity: County Judge: First floor. Personnel: Judge and two-secretaries. Space Requirements: Private office for counseling, meeting room 6-8 people, and support staff. Condition: Desks, record storage area(small), heavy traffic flow, computer terminal, and meeting table.

Activity: District Attorney: Second floor. Personnel: Attorney and one-secretary. Space Requirements: Private office, private library, and space for support staff. Conditions: Secretaries desk, data filing, and waiting area for two persons.

Activity: District Clerk: Second floor. Personnel: Clerk and two full-time support staff. Space Requirements: Private office for clerk, support space for 53 Figure 34. County Court at Law, photo by author.

54 staff, and vault. Conditions: Desks for staff, counter area, waiting area for 3-4 persons, copy machine, computer terminal, and access to courtroom.

Activity: District Courtroom: Second floor. Personnel: Judge, baliff, jury (6 to 12 members), Court Reporter, and receptionist. Space Requirements: Domestic court, Judges chambers (with toilet), jury chamber (lounge), witness waiting area, prisoner holding area, Court Reporter's office. Conditions: Judges bench, jury box, witness stand, Court Reporter's desk, audience with seating capacity of 150. Entrance for Judge and Court Reporter behind the bench. Seperate side entrance for Sheriff and District Clerk. Storage for audio-visual equipment.

Activity: Janitor Supplies: Basement floor. Personnel: Head Supervisor and two full-time helpers. Space Requirements: One primary storage area, desk space for Supervisor. Each Floor should have small storage area. Conditions. Desks, lavatory, storage cases.

Activity: Breakroom: Basement floor. Users: Both public and private individuals. Space Requirements: Area for breaks, table space for sitting area, area for refreshment vendors, and storage space for additonal chairs. Conditions: Tables (ranging from 4-8 person seating), chairs for 20-30 people advailible, vending machines and cool fresh water dispensor.

Activity: Restrooms: Public-Basement. Private-Third floor. Users: Public- 6 fixtures provided. Private- 4 fixtures provided. Space Requirements: The addition of 4 public fixtures. Conditions: Renovate existing restrooms with additional public facilities provided on the forth floor (attic).

Activity: Parking: Public on-street parking. Off-site parking for employees. 55 Figure 35. Basement Breakroom, photo by author.

56 Users: Off-site staff member parking. Street-parking (time limit) for public use. Space Requirements: 48 existing spaces with additional off-site adjacent parking required.

Possible offices that could be moved into the courthouse upon the completion of the renovation are County Agent, Justice of the Peace, Social Security, and Veterans Administration. These offices are currently located in an annexed structure located at 205 North State. •

57 /)m/}.

Figure 36. Evaluation of Exterior, photo by author.

Figure 37. Pavers, photo by author.

58 Construction costs is the one most singular factor in determining the financial success of a preservation project.

The decision onwhat extent and which means to obtain the end of a project is a step in the preservation of the courthouse. The feasibility of the projct is often when there is enough money to obtain that which is desired.

As with any project, preservation benefits must outweigh the costs of a new project. These benefits shoud not be expressed in the form of money, totally. Other factores that account for the preservation of the structure should be understood between the client and architect. Among other benefits that should be considered are historical heretage and protection of a built environment.

Preservation costs vary greatly depending upon the project and that which is desired to be accomplished. A complete restoration project, when properly done, can be and usually are quite expensive. Coversely, rehabilitatiôn and renovation, in terms of today's economy. can provide actual dollar savings. (Preservation Practice, p.5)

The economic impact of a rehabilitation project can be substantial on a local level. Not only can renovation activities increase tax receipts, create additional jobs, and foster neighborhoods conservation and stability, it can help promote downtown revitalization, tourism, and energy conservation through re-use of existing structures and create a level of demand on infrastructure and city services much lower than a comparable amount of new construction. (Shlaes & Co., p.21)

Among other benefits in determining whether a preservation project is economically feasable are: providing additional jobs, residents of the community are once again proud of the structure, and surrounding structures and/or businesses redevelop. A increase in employment resuîts from a rehabilitation project. This (as compared to new construction) is actually higher due to the labor intensive work required on a rehabilitation project. (Shlaes & Co., p, 24) 59 Figure 38. Windows, photo by author.

60 Fiaure 39. Roof, photo by author. In today's Texas economic conditions locating sufficient funds to finance preservation and/or restoration proccesses for a county courthouse is diffucult. The ability to find sufficient funds becomes a integral part of any restoration or demolision procedure. The form of financing most often availible is a bond election. (Preservation Press, p.53)

A bond is a promise to pay back a borrowed sum of money by a set date. The source of the bond can vary and the pay back money source determines the type.

Another consideration to be considered by the local government level is revemue sharing programs.

Adequate funding is a consideration of the authorites that control future implementation should be properly represented. Presentation techniques of models and/or renderings of the projected finished product provide a better understanding to those involved as observants. Local press and positive effort will greatly enhance the completion of the project. (Space Planning and Management, p.20)

Initial Costs Estimates:

The list of the detailed probable solutions are projected cost for the implementation of the design phase. This list is by no means complete and will serve only as a initial total cost estimate. Preservation and renovations of the said structure could total greater depending upon the events or conditions that have not been foreseen. The structure itself can poccess greater costs after a detailed evaluation of current conditions are properly exposed. The additional floor area projected could be costly depending upon the problems encountered during the design phase of the project.

Consultants: An analysis of structural conditions. 5,000 Consultants to oversee removal of materials, trim, 61 Figure 40. Banister, photo by author.

Figure 41. Missing Wood Details, photo by author.

62 to determine conditions and sequence of construc- tion. 25.000 TOTAL $30,000

Site: Renovation of on-street parking. 120,000 Stripping and painting of light poles and fixtures. 5,000 Detailed cleaning and surface refinishing of hist- orical markers. 3 @ $500. 1,500 Total replacement of hexagon sidewalk pavers. 15,000 Care and upkeep (replacement) of trees, shrubbery, and grass. 5,000 Renovation of sitting park benches. 1,000 Removal of electrical main (revamping). 2.000 TOTAL $149,500

Exterior Surfaces: Replacement of windows (total) with period style. 32,000 Repointing joints in specified areas. 10,000 The preservation of balconies to original condition, including replastering and painting. 40,000 The removal of applied firé-escape stairs and de- velopment of a suitable solution. 50,000 The replacement of water drainage system (copper) with appropriate materials. This also includes weature proofing balcony roofs. 10,000 Spot removal of tar on wall surfaces and cleaning of specified areas. 5.000 TOTAL $147,000

Roof Systems: The removal and replacement of existing roof tile with Bangor Slate or equilivant material. The 100 square estimate contains a 5% breakage figure. Conditions by the roof contractor can be expected, with the initial figure of $100 a square installed. Also inclu- ded is the installation of 3" of rigid insulation boards. 425,000 Resurface and repair clock face and repair and/or replace mechanism. 5,000 The cleaning and refacing of copper detailing. 7,000 Repairing of Terra Cotta freeze (specified areas). 3,000 The repairing and/or replacement of weather vanes. 2.000 TOTAL $442,000

63 Figure 42. Skylight, photo by author.

Figure 43. Attic, photo by author.

64 Environmental Conditions: The total revamping of the current electrical system. 60,000 Reducting of structure for a central HVAC system. 36,000 HVAC equipment. 8 tons @ $6,000 a ton. 48,000 The renovation of the District Courtroom. 50,000 The renovation of the County Courtroom. 10,000 The complete refinishing of existing doors and/or replacing missing hardware with period style. Also, the additional added doors of the forth floor (attic). 50 doors (S> $400 a door. 20,000 The renovation of the central stairs to period style and the stripping and painting of stair handrails. 17,000 The replacement of lamp fixtures that are missing. $200 a fixture with an estimated amount of 20. 4,000 Refurbishing of the basement breakroom. 2,000 Replacing missing wood details with same age of wood and finishing to match current pieces. 1,000 Spot plastering and complete repainting of all work spaces and public areas. 50 rooms @ $500 a room. 25.000 TOTAL $273,000

Initial Environmental Design Considerations: Conversion of the attic to usable floor area. Esti- mated square footage increase of 5,000 at a range of $32 to $45 a square foot to finish. 225,000 Public access by stairs to the forth floor. 25,000 Elevator extension to the forth floor. 10,000 Furnishing the forth floor. 10,000 Exposing circular stairs and replastering of the tower. 10,000 Cleaning and/or repair of skylight. 2,000 The addition of 4 water fixtures (S> $500 a fixture. 2,000 Evaluation of current water supply systems. The addition of a hot-water system capable to handle a increase of demand. 2,500 The addition of life safety system. 20,000 The application of task lighting. 70 fixtures (3) $50 a fixture. 3,000 The installation of period venetian blinds throughout the work spaces. 32,000 Carpet to be installed in specified areas. 22,000 The conversion of court records to microfilm. 60.000 TOTAL $424,000

65

Totals: Consultants. 30,000 Site. 149,500 Exterior surfaces. 147,000 Roof systems. 442,000 Environmental conditions. 273,000 Initial environmental design considerations^ 424.000 TOTAL $1,465,500

Architectural fees. 10% of total. 146.550 TOTAL $1,613,050 20-25% Contendency. 405.660 TOTAL $2,018,710

Figure 44. Access to Attic, photo by author.

67 Figure 45. Hampden County Courthouse

68 Henrv Hobson Richardson

That the art of one man, even in his brief lifetime, should come captive virtually and entire generation of architects and provide Main Street America with so much uniform architecture, is but one measure of the enormous accoumplishment of Henry Hobson Richardson (1838-1886). He was our first architectural giant, and was regarded in Europe as a great architect and in America as a great American. The author of , Boston, was revered by his contemporaries without ever fully grasping the more fundamental dimensions of his work. He was studied by ensuing generations who, although they discarded his style, made buildings of power and dignlty because they understood his approach to things.

He was by no means modern, never experimenting with technology, contempt to build in stone working with historical styles. His point of departure was French Romansque architecture of the Middle Ages, strong, and rational architecture that was richly ornamented. In the middle of his career he found his style, "a style in harmony with his ideas of retional planning, monumental dignity, and calm surfaces of subdued color-the very antithesis of much Victorian American architecture". (Brink, p. 109)

His Hampden County Courthouse is regarded as the first statement of both the stylistic and constructional ideas that would dominate his later works. The building is solid, rising up on a flared base and is a single material (Monson granite). A lighter version of the same granite is used for the understated trim. It is nearly a symmetrical building with a thin slot window used to balance the second-floor balcony. A huge arched entrance was present which later would become Richardson's signature. The buildings dominant feature a machicolated medieval tower, a indispensable part of the monument. The tower was gracefully fused to the remainder of the building by means of a steeply pitched hipped roof and several tall medieval French dormer which rose from behind a crenellated parapet. (Brink, p. 109)

69 SKYLIGMT GALLERY

THIRD FLOOR

GROUNO FLOOR

Figure 46. San Antonio Museum of Art

70 The Transformation of the Lone Star Brewrv Complex and River Side into the San Antonio Museum of Art

Proiect: San Antonio Museum of Art, San Antonio, Texas, purchased the Lone Star Brewry as a result of space needed by the San Antonio Museum Association during the early 1970's.

Program: Serving as the beginnings of revitalization of a neglected portion of San Antonio, the city's art museum was relocated in an complex which had been designed to house the Lone Star Brewing Company. New uses are to be intergrated into the buildings include an art and transportation museum, shops, restaurants, and a scuTpture garden.

Site: The complex consist of a 5 acre site along the San Antonio River. The project includes the development of a 2 1/2 acre sculpture garden and a waterfront promenade relating to the museum. The site is also adjacent to the CBD, which has begun to close in upon it, and the upper end of the San Antonio River District.

Solution: The brewery's large and open interiors lend themselves well to museum gallery uses. These were in a state of disrepair, yet were structurally sound with several interesting components of special merit. The brewhouse, comprised of two towers on either side of a central two-story structure, linked at the top by and open steel bridge. This bridge was to be replaced by a steel and glass enclosed bridge for visitor circulation. The restoration aspects of the existing exterior building masses were limited to repair and the slight surface decoration with colors. Terra Cotta additions were made in some window openings, that had been previously closed off for light control. Any treatment intefering with the original character was strictly avoided. This same principle was held true in the interior, leaving the exposed elements and idiosycratic nature of the building as inimitable assests. The introduction of new elements into the structural masses vary greatly from their original counterparts, being crisp shapes and fine detailing, as opposed to the playful forms and detailing of the existing building.

71 Figure 47. Marshall County Courthouse

72 Materials and Construction: Cast iron structural frame with brick masonry facing provided a sound-structure with a surprising high support system. New (added) materials comprised of a bridge of steel frame and glass, interior glass walls and introduced skylights.

Costs: $7.2 million with some $3.5 million provided through federal grants. This is opposed to the $40 million required for the Dallas Museum.

Marshall Countv Courthouse. Marshalltown. lowa

Project: Marshall County Courthouse, Marshalltown, lowa was renovated and completed in the fall of 1977.

Program: The architects determined how much of the structure could be restored to its original appearance and how many of the spaces could be changed to suit current business procedures and safety requirements. Restoration of certain interior spaces to their original appearances was accomplished. Major changes proposed included addition of two passenger elevators and three new fire stairs. The greatest change proposed included would be the addition of a additional structural floor area.

Site: The courthouse is located on the town square in Marshalltown, lowa.

Solution: The publication of old photographs and the collection of an original set of blueprints. The exterior was closely studied and slides made of deteriated areas. The restoration plan included cleaning the entire exterior surface and adding a complete new roofing

73 ^ 1= TAII^AKS '^UA^E ®

Figure 48. Henderson Mansion

7^ Materials and Construction: New fire-proofed steel construction of the original staircase, while salvaging original detailing for replacement. Carpet office areas in the interest of economy and function. Stonework carved and finished to specifications.

Cost: Original existing 12,650 sq. ft. was increased to 23,740 sq. ft. a difference of 11,090 sq. ft. Estimated costs of $2,979,000 through a bond issue referendum compared to an estimated new courthouse costs of $2,000,000. (Preservation Press, pp.69-70)

Southern Mansion Restored to Former Grandeur

Project: The conversion of a landmark pre-Civil War (Henderson) Mansion to commercial use.

Program: Circle"S," a local manufacturer of architectural products, brought the mansion and 11 cottages on the same block. The mansion was restored for the companies use and the cottages were renovated to sell for middle-income class use. A architect and preservation specialists were retained. The Henderson House was restored as authentically as possible while adapting it to contempory corporate requirements.. The design of the conversion for use as a corporate conference center and guest house was fitted into the existing facilities of the mansion and its outbuildings.

Site: The mansion is located at what was a deteriorated turn-of-the-century neighborhood of modest bungalows. Fairoaks Square is located in Selma, Alabama.

Solution: Exterior: the original siding was retained with patches replaced with 120-year-old planks. Flooring was refinished with one room replaced with oak of the same age. The metal roof was in good condition and was cleaned with abrasives, repaired, and repainted. The Doric columns had special effects paid to them to insure that deteriation did not occur again. They were raised to maintain a quarter-inch clearance to allow air circulation underneath to prevent condensation. Interior: Plaster-covered surfaces were scraped and scarified. 75 /?:-••- mê-/^

.j' • /

^^

Fjgure 49. Chenango County Courthouse

76 coated with a bonding agent, and resurfaced. Deteriated plaster was recast and wood detailing reproduced with wood of the same age. The stairs sagged due to age. A welded-steel channel was added under each stair carriage, braced them back to original positions, and adjustable bolts added for future sagging. A new HVAC system was added. The ducts were easily hidden in secondary spaces.

Materials and Construction: Wood from the same age periods were used to replace deteriated areas. Cast concrete piers were placed under the Doric columns. Deteriated plaster was replaced. A steel channel to support sagging stairs.

Costs: The building was acqulred for $55,000 and $600,000 was spent to restore it. Grant amounts obtained conslsted of $385,000 from the Community Development Block Grant and Urban Development Action Grant. (Shopsin, pp.78-82)

Landmark County Courthouse Restored for Extended Use

Project: Chenango County Courthouse had become obsolete for contemporary needs. Local officials had considered demolishing the structure and replacing it with and extension built on to an existing county office building.

Program: The decision to restore the structure was feasible for the problem was functional and a increase in space was not required. Modifications of the structure involved a documented research and historic structures report and original feature report. A proposal for the upgrading of the physical structure, functional layout, and mechanical systems were made. The architects assisted in the orgnaization of a public campaining for private contrubutions.

Site: The courthouse faces the town green of Norwich, New York, a town of 10,000 inhabitants.

Solution: Exterior: The restoration of the exterior was straight forward. The original 12-over-12 windows were restored, however the new sash was double-glazed to conserve energy. 77

A statue comprised of wood was replaced by a more weather-resistant replica of reinforced polyester. Four exsisting chiminies (a part of the rooftop silhoette) were replicated and intergrated into a ventilation system. Interior: An eclectic approach to the restoration was made, incorporating some features while removing others. The upper story courtroom had been extensively remodeled and it was decided to restore this interior rather than the original. Suspended ceilings which had been added for acoustics were removed. The ornate pressed tin ceilings were refurbished and missing panels were replaced with replicated polyester ones. Some ceilings were lowered to improve acoustices and reduce volumes of heated areas. Vinyl tile replaced oilcloth floor covering. This resisted the temptatation of replacing humble materials with permanent and servidceable ones. Original color schemes were restored after removal of applies layers. The staircase was replaced and a new staircase added in the exisiting space. A second staircase was added for an emergency exit. A elevator was Installed for handicapped accessment. A new electrical system had to be installed. Electrical lamps replaced the original brass gasoliers. Conventional fluorescent fixturs illuminated offices and work areas. HVAC were recessed into existing chases within the masonry walls. Insulation was installed in the attic and basement walls.

Materials and Construction: Replacement of windows with insulated double-glazing. Vinyl tile flooring material. A elevator was added for handicapped accessment.

Cost: A partial grant obtained from National Historic Preservation Act aided by funds from the U. S. Department of Interior. Chenango County raised the larger part with private donations. The costs of $84 per square foot was comparable to a new structure. (Shopsin, pp.115-118)

79 A. Courthouse History 81 B. Photo-Documentation 90 C. Design Standards 92 D. Courthouse Guidelines 96 E. Checklist for Court Facilities Design 102 F. A Selected Bibliography 111

80 W SE COUNTY COURTHOUSE

DECATUR. TEXAS 1895

After a hotly contested election to determine the site of the county seat, Col, Absolam Bishop, "The Father of Decatur", caused a flag to be raised on the hill where the Courthouse now stands, showing that his choice for the site had won. Col. Bishop was so pleased with the plan of the city of Mc- Kinney, in Collin County, that he copied it for Decatur, and began selling lots around the square for $100.00 each. The town was given the name of TAYLORSVILLE, but when Bishop became disillusioned with President Taylor, petitioned to change it to Decatur, for Stephen Decatur, the naval hero.

Wise County has had four Courthouses, two of which burned. The first courthouse was a small structure, sixteen feet square, weatherboarded with four inch hackberry boards (Cut in the West Fork of the Trinity River bottoms and shaved wíth a drawing knife), roofed with two foot clapboards and floored with cotton wood puncheons. This building had previously been erected by Henry Martin on a location near the site of what would someday be the Decatur Baptist College. When the little to^m was platted, this small house of Mr. Martin's was bought and moved to the northeast corner of the square and was the first house on the hill. The surplus roon was used to store supplies pending the completion of a store building under construction,

The second seat of law, located on the square, was a large square, two story, frame building, forty feet by forty feet, with halls running through the bottom floor in the four directions, making four rooms downstairs and one huge room upstairs, which was used as the courtroom. There was surplus office space in this building, also, On the night of November 26, 1881, this building burned, thought to be arson. ht third courthouse was built on the northwest corner of the square, at a cost of $50,000.00. Lt has never been clear as to why it was not placed on the square, For many years a guard was hired to stay in the courthouse to "get the records out" in case of fire, but this practice had been eliminated quite sorae time before it burned about 5:30 on the moming of January 8, 1895, also thought to be arson according to legend,

The present Courthouse, located in the middle of the square was constructed at a cost of $110,000.00, which was thought by many to be excessive, and the officials were not re- elected the next time. The architect, J. Riley Gordon, of San Antonio, collected a fee of 5% 6f the construction cost. Bonds amounting to $110,000. were issued on May 16, 1895. The stone was precut and each piece numbered then shipped from Burnet County, Texas. The stones were raised by a windlass pulled by donkeys walking in a circle drawing the rope tight. The building, completed in 1896, is of pink granite with interior of Vermont marble, and has been pronounced architecturally perfect. Bids for the Courthouse clock were opened May 14,1896 , and was purchased from E. Howard & Company, described thus: "No. 1, Hour Strike Tower Clock, $952.00; with bell for same, 2,000 Ibs., $388.00, total cost $1,340.00."

All indebtedness was paid off in 1945, and the building was modernized in the 1960's. In 1968, the Wise County Commissioners Court had 400 watt mercury vapor lights installed around the square, making the building appear ethereal .when illuminated at night. The etteriorwas sandblasted several years ago. Some solid glass windows were installed later •hich is not in keeping with the original architecture.

The delight of youngsters all through the years has been to go to the top of the Court- house, up the winding stairs, to the steep wooden steps, then around the bell, up another flight of metal steps to the very top—where it seems you can see the whole wide world! One section of winding stairs was removed when the elevator was installed several years ago. Now guided tours are possible by contacting the County Auditor, or County Judge.

In 1975 a county jail v/as erected on the very spot where the little 16 x 16 foot log Courthouse served the county in 1856, on the northeast corner.

The Courthouse is on the National Register, and carries the madallion and plaque attesting to its historic value in the state of Texas.

By-R. Gregg 81 WISE COUNTY

WISE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Decatur, Texas — 1895

After a hotly contested election to deternnine the site of the county seat. Col. Absolam Bishop, *The Father of Decatur". caused a flag to be raised on the hill where the Courthouse now stands, showing that his choice for the site had won. Col. Bishop was so pleased with the plan of the city of McKinney. in Collin County, that he copied it for Decatur and began selling lots around the square for $100.00 each. The town was given the name of TAYLORSVILLE. but when Btshop became disillusioned with President Taylor. petítioned to change it to Decatur. for Stephen Decatur. the naval hero.

Wise County has had four Courthouses. two of which burned. The first courthouse was a small structure. sixteen feet square. weatherboarded with four inch hackberry boards (cut m the West Fork of the Triníty River bottoms and shaved with a drawing knife), roofed with two foot clapboards and fkx)red with cotton wood puncheons. This building had previously been erected by Henry fwlartin on a location near the site of what would someday be the Decatur Baptist College. When the little town was platted, this small house of Mr. Martin*s was tx)ught and moved to the northeast corner of the square and was the first house on the hill. The surplus room was used to store supplies pending the completion of a store building under construction.

The second seat of law. located on the square, was a large square. two story. frame building, forty feet by forty feet. with halls running through the bottom floor in the four directions. making four rooms downstairs and one huge room upstairs. whch was used as the courtroom. There was surplus office space in this building. also. On the night of November 26. 1881. this building burned. thought to be arson.

The third courthouse was built on the northwest corner of the square. at a cost of $50.000.00. It has never been clear as to why it was not placed on the square. For many years a guard was hired to stay in the court- house to "get the records out" in case of fire. but this practice had been eiiminated quite some time before it burned about 5:30 on the morning of January 8, 1895. also thought to be arson according to legend.

The present Courlhouse, iocated in the middle of the square. was constructed at a cost of $110.000 00 which was thought by many to be excessive. and the officials were not re-elected the next time. The architect J. Riley Gordon, of San Antonto. collected a fee of 5% of the construction cost. Bonds amounting to $110 000 were issued on May 16. 1895. The stone was precut and each piece numbered then shipped from Burnet County. Texas. The stones were raised by a windlass pulled by donkeys w^king in a circle drawing the rope tight. The building. completed in 1896. is of pink granite wrth intefior of Vemront marble. and has been pro- nounced architecturally perfect. Bids for the Courthouse dock were opened May 14. 1896 and was pur- chased from E. Howard & Company. described thus: "No. 1. Hour Strike Tower Clock $952 00* wíth bell for same. 2.000 Ibs.. $380.00. totai cost $1,340.00."

All indebtedness was paid off in 1945, and the building was rT xJernized in the 1960's. In 1968 the Wise County Commissionef Court had 400 watl mercury vapor lights installed around the square. making the buiding appear ethereal when illuminated at night. The exterior was sandWasted several years ago. Some solid glass wtndows were installed iater which is not in keeping with the original architecture.

The delight of youngsters afl through the years has been to go to the top of the Courthouse. up the winding stairs. to the steep wooden steps. then around the beU. up another flight of metal steps to the very top- where rt seems you can see the whole vwde woridl One section of winding stairs was removed when the elevator was installed severai years ago. Now guided tours are possibíe by contacting the County Audrtor or County Judge.

In 1975 a county jaíl was erected on the very spot viíhere the littie 16 x 16 foot log Courthouse served the county in 1856. on the ncrtheast corner.

The Courthouse is on the NationaJ Register. and carries the medaflion and plaque attesting to its historic value in the Staíe of Texas.

By R. Gregg

82 WISE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Decatur, Texas

The Wise County Courthouse was com- pleted in 1896 and still stands as a land- mark to all of the county and surrounding area. It was designed by J. Riley Gordon of New York a famous architect in his day and has been pronounced architec- turally perfect by noted experts in that line. The following information taken from the Commissioners Minutes as it ap- pears on record reveals the details of the construction of it. This information is sup- plied by fs^rs. C. M. Leavitt, Slidell, Texas through the research of the records by her.

WISE COUNTY COURTHOUSE from Dallas, Ft. Worth, Houston, Austin, Waco, COMMISSIONER'SCOURTMINUTES-Vol, 3 Bowie and St. Louis, Mo. p. 38 - Be it remembered that on thls the 8th day of Jan., 1895 there was began and held a p. 50 - Election held Feb. 26th, 1895, to see special session of the Hon. County Commission- if courthouse should be moved: Decatur re- er's Court of Wise County, Tex., same having ceived 2200 votes, Paradise 360, Bridgeport 1355 been duly called by the Hon. R. F. Spencer, and Alvord 969. County Judge as provided by law. Present: Hon. J. F. Spencer - Co. Judge, J. H. Wallace - p. 59 - 8th day March, 1895, Commissioner's Co. Com. S. A. Keen, A. B, Russell, M. L. Court met to conslder bids for a proposed court- Hamilton - Co. Clerk. house of granite. Bids ranged from $97,225.00 Court was opeied by J, W. Moore, Sheriíf, to $122,032.00. J. A. White's bid considered in offices of Bullock & Tankersley, the court- because lowest. May lOth, 1895, minor changes house having been destroyed by íire this morning made to reduce cost to $95,000 James Riley at 5:30o'clock. Gordon agreed to superintend construction. Buslness; Selected tempôrary courthouse, signed contract for rental for Ford Weakey & p. 64 - May 16, 1895 - Wise Co. Court House Johnson Bldg., belonglng to Wise Co. Ntl. Bank, "Bonds" be issued under the 23rd Legislature set up building at countie's expense for $50 per for purpose of erecting a court house for Wise month, pd. monthly. Co« Bonds numbered from one to 110 - denomina- tion $1000 each, aggregating $110,000, due and p. 49 - 4tb llar. 1895 - meeting called in payable April 10, 1935 but may be redeemed at court house to examine designs and bids for the the pleasure of county at any time after April plans and specifEcations for a new courthouse 10, 1905 - Interest at 5%, payable semi-annually ÍD accordance wjih the published advertisements in lawful money of the U. S. at Chemical Ntl. made by this caart 10 architects submitted Bank, , or at such other bank plans. Contract awarded J, Riley Gordon of as court designates in New York as fiscal agent San Antonio. OOier architects submitting came of Wise County. 83 p. 65 - To pay interest and create sinking fund p. 131 - Steam heat with radiators entire build- to discharge them at maturity a tax of 15 cents ing above basement to a temperature of 70 de- on $100 valuation of property in county shall grees when thermometer reaches zero outside. be assessed and coUected until paid. p. 143 - Dec. 14, 1895 - George D. Barnard p. 71 - May 18. 1895 - J. A. White for the & Co., St. Louis, made bid to furnish the court- sum of $95,000 was to begin work by June 1, house for $6,935.00 which was accepted. 1895 and complete it before May 1,1896. Payment - 90% value of materials delivered p. 181 - May 14, 1896 - Bids opened for clock and labor performed as the work shall proceed for new cburthouse: J. E. Mitchell offered E. on Ist day of each month - Other 10%tobepaid Howard & Co. clock No. 1 Hour Strike Tower 30 days after completion of building. Architect Clock for $952.00, bell $388.00 - for a total of shall judge materials. $1,340.00. All expenses except for carpenters and mason work which may be necessary to place p. 87 - General Instructions - Entire outside tower in position to receivé clock. Guaranteed feicing to be made of best quality in two colors free from all original defects and to run with as selected from Hughes Llano Quarries. proper care and regulation within one minute per month. p. 88 - AU granite laid in its natural bed in 2. Seth Thomas Clock Co. by E. H. Baum- rich mortar thoroughly bonded. Foundation, in- gardiner for $967.00, BeU for 2,000 Ibs. for terior and backing for walls, chimneys, etc, $440.00, Total $1,407.00. to be of hard burned brick, free from limestone. Accepted bld for Howard Clock - length of pendulum is one foot longer than other makes p. 91 - Mosaic floors, corridors, porches, lob- of clocks. - Beats one and half seconds instead bies and halls of mosaic known as tutti colors of seconds as do other makes. michati, comprøsed of small pieces of marble of four different colors, laid in a dark colored p. 189 - Water Tank in attic made of cypress Portland cement, lines to be distinctive between and 10 feet in diameter at bottom, Several colors. Other floors best quality straight grained wrought iron bands. (All suppUes to water clos- calcasicis? pine - dry and well seasoned. ets, sinks, urinals, wash basins and heating boUer must be taken from main supply pipe from main p. 94 - Blinds - Venetian, bronze hardware, supply from the street to be run dlrect to tank - flagstaff oak. Roof - side of domes ofslate. all fixtures to be supplied from tank main. Tank Heavy layer of f ber paper tacked down tben shall set on beams and shall have a safe pan covered with Banger slate of light blue color, of .3# to a foot sheet lead placed under same or equally as good. Gutters llned with 16 oz. which shall extend 2 ft. fárther than the sides copper. Metal work of roof done in 16 oz. copper. of the tank, also turned up one ft. all around Glass - All glass made of 1/4" best polished at the edges. C. A. Crozier & Lillard & Co.'s. plate glass, wood beads and well puttled. Terra bid accepted for $315.00. Cotta - inside partition walls'and inside floor arches included. Outside wall faced with best p. 195 - August 1896 bids offeredforconstructlon pressed brick. All woodwork painted. Oily of iron fence and sidewalks around courthouse - rags removed from premises each day. Sky- none satisfáctory. light 3/8" ribbed glass. Staircase - Stringers and trimmings to be of steel. AU materials p. 204 - Nov. 9, J. A. White was allowed $1,107 specified as to quality inspected and tested. for building sidewalks around the new courthouse. Bids to be taken May 9th AD 1895. Ordered that June term 1895 be held in Opera p. 205 - "The Decatur Electric and Ice Co. House for $25 for District Court. doth herein and hereby convenant to and with Wise June Term 1895 - Present: Hon. R. F. Spen- Co. . . . to furnish for the courthouse, 38 electric cer, Co, Judge, J. H. Wallace, Co. Com, Pre- lights on a ten o'clock circuit at the rate of 75 cinct 1 - 6, J. W. Boone, Co. Com, Precinct 2 - cents for each Ught per month. In the event 5, S. A. Keen, Co. Com. Pre. 7 - 8, A. B. Rus- that lights be required on a 12 o'clock circuit, seU, Co. Com. Pre. 4 - 5, M. L. Hamilton, Co. they are to be furnished at the rate of $1.00 per Clerk. month per light, provided however when as many Business to receive blds for $110,000 Wise as 100 extra lights over the 38 are required County Bonds. Best bid was N. W. Harris Co. - in 12 o'clock circuit for any special occasion was accepted - $111,257.00. for a nlght, or any number of nights. thecom- Junes 4. 1895 - Agreed to pay J. R. Gordon, pensation therefore shall be at the rate of $1.00 architect, $1,000 for plans, per month per light." Co, to run wire under- ground to basement building to connect with feed- p. III - J. A. White - builder ing wire of courthouse, p. 130 - J. D. Kane agrees to do electric p. 210 - Court ordered 150 spittoons from wiring íor $575, steam heat building $2,250 J. D, Kane for $76.50 - Contract for 9 paper plumbing $1,040 - Total $3,865. racks and one case 100 rolls paper for water closet for $9,00.

84 p, 213 - Nov. 26, 1896 - District court to be p. 247 - Be it ordered that Mr. Helm be aUowed held in temporary buUding untU new courthouse $10.00 as balance on labor to help place steel be completed. fUrniture in Co. Clerk's vault and $5.00 per Janitor Employed - Contract to Wess Helm month from AprU Ist, 1897 for assistant and to be employ^d for 2 years as janitor ofthe extra work done as janitor. new courthouse at $45.00 per mon i, to be paid at end of month. Duties: Keep buUding clean p, 249 - East room in basement rented to and repaired, dust waUs when needed, clean W. W. Wolsey for private office for 12 months spittoons, oU clock and keep regulated, attend from June 8,1897 - $5.00 per month. furnaces, clean windows and to prevent entire buUding trom all damage and defácement, as THE WBE COUNTYCOURTHOUSE £ar as diligence may prevent. Court to check same at end of each quarter. To attend and pre- - AT NIGHT vent from improper intrusions and trespasses and In 1968 powerful mercury vapor floodlights protect trees and shrubbery and set 6ut any were installed around the courthouse , . . trees the court fumishes. Keep beds of jury it is most attractive and visible for mUes. i neat and clean condition. Air sheets. Re- port any person defacing the buUdlng. Attend aU lamp glot)es. Lock buUding at night. Have buUding heated by seven o'clock in mornine.

p. 216 - October 28, 1896 - Agreed that J. A. White, contractor, be allowed the sum of $5,000 as an' advance payment upon completion of buUd- Ing. Court ordered that J, RUey Gordon, architect, be aUowed $1,684.80 in fuU payment for balance due on contract. p, 224 - Jan 5, 1897 - Comes on to be heard appUcation of J. A. White to have new court- house received, Architect J. RUey Gordon pre- sent, Account - White - May 25,1895 - Total amount of contract $95,000.00; previous payments $84,- 828.85; balance due $10,171.15; Nov. 26, 1896 re- ceived $5,000.00; total balance $5,171.15. p. 225 - Mr. J. H, WaUace who was employed by Commissioner's Court of Wise Co. to super- intend the construction was present and stated that sald buUding had been constructed to his satisfaction and in accordance with the contract and specifications and orders oí court of Wise Co. "Foregoing a{H)earlng to the satlsfacticHi of the court it is ordered that said buUding and ap- purtenances \>e received and claims of J. A. White for $5,171.15 and $2,319.37 be approved,"

p. 225 - Estlmate #18 - Paid for extra work: sidewalk and íence, etc. $2,970.62; basement$2,- 000,00; clock house, chute and doors $135.75; boUer room steps $15.00; removingpartltion$5.00; total $5,126.37; less previous payment $M07.00; balance doe $4,019.37; $1,000.00 pd. and deductlon oo coQcrete $700.00 equals $1,700.00; balance due $2,319.37.

p. 236 - Harch 1, 1897 - W. Helm be aUowed $50.00 eztra comp^isatÍoQ lofr assistant janitor from Dec. 1, 1896 to AprU 1, 1897 provided he Is to set the courtbouse yard in grass when same is deUvered to him.

85 WZ8E ooum conmixisE

IHIS BCllIinC, IHE FOURIH TO SERVE iS 1» SBAT Qt OHR OOWITlf GOrøaOEIT,

IS THE raUC TO BE ERECTED AS Â OOURTaOUSE. THE PIBST BEIBG Á LOG CåBIM

IDVED FROH A LOCATIOi ABOUT A MILE S UTH T THE 1KR7H EASÎ CORBER OF THE

SQQARE. (S IHE MORiaMQ OF JAIIUARY 6.. IB9S, THE GLD COQRTHOJSE WHICH ST OD

IBSRE nC BBV FRABXLUI STCRE IS HCW, BURNEO UIDER RAISR SOSPICIOUS CIRCUH

SCAKES. 1HE COMMISSICBERS CGURI )CT IM)£DIA7ELY AM) MAOE PLAHS TO BUILD

A IBI FIREFROCF CCIJRTH0U5E, ANT AT A COST CF A DOIDED IMDEBTEDBESS CF

|lilO,000« COITRACT VAS UT FCR 1HE BUILDUG H£ ARE DEDICATIIC THE MARKER

FOR lODir. THERE ARE MAHY IVrERESTIBG STORIES ABOUT IHL 3UILDI1C CF IHE

CCÚRTHOQSE, THE' GRAHT BLOCXS UERE RAISED BY IEAJÍS «^ MULES AND PULLEYS,

E1C.

IHIS CCURIHOUSF HAS BEEN PROBOWICED AhCHIT CTURALLY PERFECT BY PEOPLE HHD nKH ABOUT THESE IHIICS, UD hlE DEDICATE 1HIS HARXER C0I<£}1DRATIBG THIS

BUILDIBG TO OUR FUTURE GElíEílATICIiS MITH THE HOPE IT MIU. OûífTIIIUE TO BE A

FLACE CP HSPIRATIOI AK) JUSTICE. 14" X 9" Medallion Plate inscription Wise Cqunty

WIS E*COUNTY**COURT HOUS E*^*.

THIF.D BUILT SINCE CREATION

OF THE COUNTY IN 1856,

ERECTED,1895,OF PINK TEXAS

GRANIIE.WITH INTERIOR OF VER-

MONT MARBLE.HAS BEEN CALLED

ARCHITECTURALLY PERFECT.HAS

CO-MMANDING HEIGHT OF 1,112'.

BONDED CCST PAID IN FULL

APRIL 10,1945.MODERNIZED 1960Í*

RECORDED TEXAS HISTORIC LANDMARK,1964.***

*l/2" lettering **3/8" lettering throughout text with exception of dates, v/hich are l/4" **»i/4" lettering. 88 8-A— LUBBOCK AVALANCHE-JOURNAL, Tuesday Morning, January 27, 1987

DOMINO BAN - Decatur domino players Gene ment of the Wise County Courthouse. County Rhirie, left, Herbert White, Glenn Stockton and commissioners voted to prohibit the courthouse Hernrøn Clark enjoy a recent game in the base- domíno games. (AP Laserphbto) Wise Couríiy Úfficials Oustf ^ /* . „. .. . // / ' '/ CourthouseDominoPlayers - • »•• ^ .* í 'i ..j ••.'•2. !,.-,!•,.•• ..y •'ír.l-.' •.•• '.'^•J-. .*i. ; . . • ^ DECÁTUR (AP) - Elderly-men^whd píay domi- plained;^^ - : ^ ' noes, smoke cigars and drink coffee in the basement A sign bn a basement wall, above one of the domino of the ^Wise County Courthouse aré stéwing over a di- tables, was posted before the commissioners* vote. ; rective that they vacate the premises. "Notice to Domino Players.*' it read. **There have County commissioners voted to bar thejiandfulof _b^n.a number of complaints about domtno players men vyho play dominoes in the basement lounge every parking on the courthouse square, not keeping the moming and afternoon. Their iast day to congregate domino playing area clean and throwing tobacco cuds istoiday. in the flower beds. This needs to be corrected for the "Tbey just told us the courthouse wasn*t the place "^benefitofall." to play dominoes.*' said Glenn Stockton, 71. County Judgé Willard Howell said he hadn*t ré- Commissioners voted Jan. 12 to prohibit domino ceived any complaints about the basement group. But playing in the courthouse and gavé the players 15 dáys '•• ^ ihcreásed liability and the belief that the courthouse to v^ate. Commissioner Max Weaver said if the men should not be a domino hall prompted the court*s ac-^ mereiy sat árouhd drinking coffeé;'smokihg cigars :û tioh, he sáid. and discussing life. there would be no problem. "They took it in good grace,*' said Weaver. "The Gene Rhine, 81, said he didn*t know the reason courthouse is not a proper place for a domino parlor.** domino players were beiilg booted from thé basément '. Former County Judge Bob Holloway, defeated in roo^.' /• ^ ;; ' November by Howeli, said several of the men had ^^hey didn't say nothing about us being' too nolsy ' asked him if they could play in the basement. oc^thing.*' said Rhine. "They just said there had ,, /*I didn*t see where it would hurt anybody,** he bffiCcomplaints, but they wouldnH say who com-l sald.' . ;

89 Dto-documentation on restoration work: a new technique it lowers costs, saves tinne and maintains control

5t five years have seen great advances in the application of photographic techniques to the phota-sensitive mylar Photographs of the ction of contract documents. These techniques have evolved largely in response to the existing structure are selected for use on the ig Interest in projects Involving historic preservation, restoration, and building re-use, where sheets and the drawings that accompany these graphy meets Ihe requirement of extreme accuracy called for in the duplication of difficult- images are photographed as well. The entire neate existing conditions. Following ís how one archltectural firm uses the technique. ensemble of photographs and drawings is then assembled in proper sequence to form the y Lowey-Bâl/ and Q'lson Riecken ''sheet/' Negatives are produced at the desired size and are laíd out in theír proper order and bvíous advantages of photo-documenta- directness and clarity that ultímately expedites contact printed onto the mylar film. The result re speed and accuracy. Short-drcuiting client understanding of the project and the is a full-size transparency ôf photo-posítive ecessity of drawing existíng condítíons contractor's abílíty and willingness to bid. Archí- images which can be run through any díazo enormous quantities of time, and the tectural offices struggling to hold down over- printing machine. Experience with this process icy of weil-chosen photographs means head are pleasantly surprísed to find that major indicates that productíon time may be cut by )nfusion both in the office and on the job. economies in terms of drawing tíme result from 50 to 90 per cent per sheet. nnbiguity inherent in much architectural the use of photo-documentation techniques. The weakness of such a process is that it ig is replaced by photographs of the reai Briefly, the process works like this. Typical requires a hígh degree of claírvoyance on the readily understood by everyone. It ís this photo-documentation sheets requíre the use of part of the architect coordinating the contract

'ocess requires the use of electrostatic reproductions on translucent mâtte-fínish adhesive film.

Illl3

M 3 documents; prior to composing the final mylar 35mm film were then used to select negatives jheet he must anticipate all conceivable condi- for enlargement to 5 X 7 prints. lions likely to form a part of the job. Those The images chosen for enlargement were familiar with the internal dynamics of most printed in reverse since it was anticipated that ardiitectural offices and projects are aware the adhesive-film copíes would be applied to that last-minute changes can wreak havoc with the back of the vellum tracing sheet. The the lead-time required for this process. In addi- reverse prints were all normal exposures lion, the architect is saddled with having to printed on medium contrast paper. work at close quarters with an outsíde party, The "backwards" prints were then rou- the printing company, over whose internal tinely copied onto adhesive-film (Figure 1) and sdieduling he exercises but little effective spray fixative applied lo prevent smudging. The control. sheets were composed in ihe same manner as Our firm has had a long and continuing an ordinary set of contract documents; the invoivement in historic preservalion projects images fit wíthin the standard detail grid devel- throughout the state of Texas, and we had 'oped by the office. After trimming excess film experimented briefly with photo-documenta- from the images with scissors, we mounted the tion several years ago when working on the copy ín its proper positíon on the reverse side restoration of an 18th century Spanish mission of the tracing sheet. If the copy was wrongly structure. This experience demonstrated the positíoned or íf ít was decided to delete the validíty of photo-documentatíon as a means of image or substitute another ín its place, we communicating information, but at the same simply peeled the copy off the sheet without time underscored the complexity and lack of damaging the whole (Figure 2). Replacement Hexibiiity inherent in preparing photomylar adhesive film ímages require the same amount sheets. of time to prepare as do ordinary plain paper copies — less than a minute — with the added The technique can be applied ..advantage that no third, or outside party, tísmg electrostatic printers needs to be brought into ptay. The fírm was recendy faced with a specíal Ptacement of the image on the back of the problem presented by a re-use project on the drawing sheet (Figure 3) facílitates notation. StTând ín Calveston, Texas, where we were Note arrows can be highlighted by erasing a retained to recycle the century-old Blum line through the image on the adhesive-fiim Building from its present abandoned state into a side aíter the arrows were drawn on the front mixed-use restaurant-office building. No copies of the sheet (Figures 4 and 5). A dummy diazo of the origínal building plans existed. This fact, print without notation was prepared to mock coupled wíth severe time and budgetary up the notes and arrows so as to reduce constraints pointed to the use of photo-docu- erasures on the original sheet. During the mentation to facilítate facade restoration draw- course of the facade work, detail images were ings. Portions of the contract documents were deleted and others added as the work required for a facade grant applicatíon, so to progressed (Figure 6). minimize delays, facade restoration drawíngs The use of the electrostatic process in were begun considerably in advance of the conjunction with photo-documentation is a remainder of the project. The drawings had to niajor advance which sotves severat problems be sufficiently flexible to permit last-minute at the same time. It reduces the "lead-time" changes: the addítíon, deletion, or substitution dunng which the drawings are in the hands of of photographic images. Lead-time for compo- printers to praaicalty zero. The entire process sition was cut to a minimum. can be handted ''in-house" if the office To overcome these problems, we turned happens to possess a plain paper copier, and a írom the use of photo-mylar sheets to electro- Figu'e 4 dark room. Architects prone to delaying deci- static reproductions on translucent matte-finish sions until the last minute (or, as is usualty the adhesive film. (Electrostatic reproduction refers case, caught in a deadtine squeeze) wiit be to plain paper copiers.) Matte-finish adhesive grateful for the immediate response time fiims are translucent plastic sheets, adhesive offered by this method. tn general, -quahty backed and attached to liner sheets that are control is improved t>ecause the process is compatible with electrostatic copiers and simpler. Fewer photographic intermediates are similar in appearance to Zip-a-tone. Recent required, and each photograph is individuaily advances in plain paper copier technology now adjusted for clarity and contrast on the final permit some measure of control over contrast document. Best of all, the overall cost ot the and several degrees of reduction in image size. process is a small fraction of the cost of The new machines are also capable of high producing photo-mylar film sheets. A recent quality reproduction of photographs. Most Figure 5 direct comparison with a project using the plain paper copiers accept standard letter and photo-mylar process, revealed ihat the photo- legal-size sheets of adhesive film. mylar sheets cost roughly 12 to 15 times as The ínitial stages of this process are similar much to prepare as etectrostatic equivatents. lo those typical of the photo-mylar process. Photo-dc umentation is a vatuabte toot in The existing building was thoroughly photo- H5"- the hands of the architect involved in restora- graphed both for large elevation views and for tion and renovation work. Tcxiay it is a fasl, specific details. We found the 35mm format flexible and cost-effeclive method easily within adequate since the limit in image quality is set the ran e of even the smaltest firms. by two factors: 1) the numt>er of ''slages" 91 (reproductions) the image must pass through from rami>r^ tn finished sheets and 2) the The duíhofs are wtth Ihe San Anlonio, Tews, firm of Ford. diazo pripong process itself. íontact she^ of FiRure 6 Powell & Carson Architects & Pianners, Ir . £ £ £ ^ l-o S- 1« ^ £S ^^ -^l 11 1:= Íi SE £E l Sl SJ ^^ s ± £ E I 1 8 I 11 I îL I « ! î s s • • a * a. II llli I Íil i lil h Is h h sl 2S s& s s s ? í? I sS 3 s 3 3^^ S I SMUÍ ê

3 IJ 8 m SÉ SÉ 8 ssãS 1s -8- -1 EÍ ÊÍil — 3^E—*J o— E'o w St-«i. .Ê5>;*E-o|eE Ai iil ii S o » o s o SsS US Ss

s 5 5 5

i 1 I i 7 ^ ^ « 1 3 3 uu 1 1 f m e S s s $ 11 S 5 2 5 15 C4 ^ 5 i I á Å ^

2 21 I iiî 3 3 3 2 52 i- .i - I S -J£ Sà tA ^fi 5S ' 5 á c 1 C a, S pSo o •S- I ÛC e 2 ^ « XTEÉ < !MO c o ^-ês tZ **. 5S % îsî z li ^ •* u w'*' n < |s?^ cii =;fe •! Js o S •• 5 ulpmen l mlture / ^E •= z «& 5) Ib w 55SÊ 5£l 5--£ ^"5 ^ tw z e e a é c e e §Sc ic e (0 i e* II a fc UJ 8 e e e o ^ 1. 5. — -2. §«C P U V •• E E-EE 1- w î5 I 1 "So í!o.«»i à (U0J iå III p 11 J1 1 i i s 3 í £ 7 a li II I I 1 < I • • ^ u. fi * B 2 >- s I II S 2 1 e I I I 11 t m

92 B S I 1 U 1 1 1 is 1 1 M i f s JÍE a a !j Privat e o r publk i n E 11 mlnlmu m o r llmltw l II iSs 8. ?1 u m II 11 Seo. offlce s in ^an d § § as _e i{» £ff u V • Prtv a publ l u aa (•ne i H iH

liSg 5u

K3Sê ^ I ; S

^l I ^-. ^ 1.1. d II íl Íl 1SÍ2 îl Ss íll II II n iiii I sgj 8« i 1 î î 3! 1 & 1 1 i I i 1 e I 1 1 ou s 1 1 s (O I î o 8 z h l n (0 e z C9 co 2 2 5 UJ o • • 15 • e u S -M V li I5 I u * H iw «« > •=' Z —^ II •'SÊ U«î? -^ O . ••- n M M w " = e E « ^.M.O ^'E3 S n 3 a er jg oí c M f Vo3- « c « • »a o- OA M m II á M « Jl O « s c ^ ? £ ^ g o •S3«M 2Í5-- TífSíf s^gM- •ofSrf > 3 MM S E ^sss ^iss ^lss ^lsl _ 3 Ss^s'S a="E^ Scffl£t a="£'s ac"£l •? S 58 -' So." w rÆSStg r5S5^ r5£5i :5s5i r5 2 S^ • S5 ss oa."Scoeu aÆ ásSli -^fãl- sãl- <:l|ll -

I- •e (0 I 1 S -s I h o I E f h I < f

93 94 1 3 S S 1 I E s 3 s § 1 E 1 1 E 1 1 i S I 2 E u I I I I s S 1 ^ 1 1 1 1 S € I I £ I I I I I &• » >» ^ £ 2 1 I f t f f •& I 3 3 8 3 8 3 8 3 _ N • S—• S2í ã^3>î S 5' SX ifli ^H §8 S« =• !• §• S Si 09 £• S a Æo- • a u ^ £JS S» â^ Ô& S& UM » U UJ OM

Sui o 9 9 9

Soik cn $mnA 8 8 M 8 '> 'î niH m

3

o

-- -í - íc •M ^SÍÍEII; sl J w*? slg fc »•0 M .9 e 3 Ea• t -a Ifl I ^ S rt cn 3 E E

c»o

o

o —* ^ ^ " ã 2 2 lî 3 i á ^

iis S5 3 3 3 2 3 2 2 00 • u> T «-• -* UJ S3 SS M <£- S-o |S sl 5-a 1 5 ='*'C o Î I uo C"^^ —e eSg ** M S" "2î 4-iwC u «•£ • cha l tio n sid e SS qul p labi e I s .5- - -cS S "Sc u c ÛS « • • M —^ ti — e • "-c 3 w** « 35 • £•* itt — • E • w —•"es ' Cã' sw• e *• 5- •» " •i E JZ .O A t • SSÊ Lou n refli s ofli c u£E U'M •-•-M í-Æ ^-e Sli II u •• .s .sl 5 e w e e e É . e o "1 ea= — M 8 S 2.0 ec 3 3 s s e sSe o o-s ?S o < a"s • 3 _^ w o •^ ÍJ2 3. -ã -3L __—M M "2 §• g« cã c c ^•s ^^55 • 2^ S« gu gu 1-e i^ i i E E u • E E i^ M.Ei|S0 ^3,0 wa.m'm ^ I Et E E 3i o •0 5 co e z • II ^ ^ S M g w — e e s '•5 tS "^5 -^ >» •? .a e íC 9 & •— M C ?* ^ tn u > ^£^s 2 S ss ^ .i "5 e5 ;£ m UJ 1" ^ • mSÍ Entr y an d S o registratlo n ^l Ts I S -I S S 5 5g 3

95 area includes net area occupîed by the person using existing facilities with functional and spatial the fumiture/equîpment in perfonning an activity. problems may aggravate rather than resolve problems. Circulation area can be defined as the minimum area needed around the fumîture/equipment for • Extensive renovation can be as costly as new construction. The decision to renovate should be movement of people, fumîture and equipment with- based on economíc considerations as much as on in the overall floor area). functional feasibility. To convert net floor area to gross floor area, which includes mechanical and electrical equipment spaces, Space Management public elevators, staircases, toilet and corridor spaces, janitorial and building supplies storage spaces, and • Complex operational and functional interac- extemal wall areas, an additional 50 percent of net tions necessitate comprehensive and integrated floor area has to be added. For example, a courtroom space management research and programming. with 1,200 sq. ft. net useable floor area would have • Space management analysis consists of: an equivalent 1,800 sq. ft. gross floor area. In - clearly defining goals and objectives of proj- addition to space standards, standards for lighting ect and study; (type and intensity), acoustical (background noise - organizing research and analytic systems; level and average absorption coefficient) and thermal - corapiling and analyzing data relating to per- (effective temperature in summer and winter) also are sons involved in the judicial system, their ac- included in the summary table. Degree of accessibility tivities and the spaces in which activities are and security classification have been evaluated and performed; included in the table to aid the local architect in the - establishing functional and spatial relation- ships between persons, departments or units design of judicial facilities. and documents; - studying existing manpower requirements and projecting future personnel needs for the es- COURTHOUSE GUIDEUNES timated life span of the building; - developing space use plans for each court and court-related department; General - synthesizing design concepts and integrating complex planning components; • A courthouse is a building in which justice is - developing alternative schemes and assessing administered: its architecture should express their functional, environmental and economic the dignity and purpose of the court. feasíbility; • There are many different types of courts—among - recommending the phasing of an implementa- them, criminal, civil, family, juvenile—and the tion program to complete a facility project design of courthouses for each type should re- at minimum cost to the state, city or county, flect the goals each seeks to achieve. The design with minimum disruption to court operation. of hearing rooms for juvenile cases, for instance, would be quite different from that of trial court- rooms. Sîte Selection • Architectural components of a court building— • Considerations should include population structure, services and finishes-should be de- growth patterns, transportation modes, proxim- signed within a unified architectural concept. ity to the community center and accessibility of • A courthouse is designed to accommodate many court-related facilities. such as hospitals, police different kinds of users: judges, law assistants, stations, jails, drug treatment centers, half-way district attorneys, legal aid and defense attor- houses and other related institutions. neys, probation officers, conciliation officers, • Site should be suitable and adequate for present clerks, court reporters, interpreters, medical and and expansion needs during life span of the social agency personnel, defendants, plaintiffs, building or complex. press, public, and so on. • Selection should take into account topographic, • A careful analysis should be made of all existing climatic and orientation factors that could in- courthouse and court-related facilities to deter- fluence building design. mine whether renovation of existing facilities • Consideration should be given to convenience of can accommodate immediate and future needs. location for attorneys and general public. Most • Some buildings have higher "renovation po- attorneys in urban areas are located in commer- tential" than others. Hurried renovation of cial or financial centers of the city.

96 Space Allocation • Mechanical, electrical and elevator equipment usually are housed on the roof and basement • Depending on site and location, a courthouse levels of a building, or, in buildings of more can be single- or multi-story—single for small than 20 stories or so, occupy as well one or more communities or as a branch of a major court intermediate levels to minimize long vertical building, multi-story in large metropolitan areas. duct runs. • Horizontal segmentation of a multi-story court- • Detention facilities and related departmental house according to major court functions may offices can be located on a low-ceiling floor result in unnecessary and costly duplication of "sandwiched" between two high-ceiling court- spaces such as robing rooms, chambers and con- room floors. ference rooms. • Detention facilities and any departmental offi- • Courtroom, departmental and judges' floors can ces also can be located on a low-ceiling floor be planned in vertical segments, each served by around the central building core. Two-story its own elevators and staircases. courtrooms would have high-ceiling judicial areas and one-story public spectator areas be- • Spatial layout depends largely on the method low the upper-Ievel detention and departmental of assigning cases and júdges to courtrooms, and office floor. on the location and degree of consolidation of the clerk's office. • Basement floors should accommodate records- storage and locker facilities, custodial ofíices, • Floors nearest the entrance level usually are mechanical and electrical equipment rooms, assigned as public spaces and may include cler- and, possibly, temporary prisoner holding facil- ical, administrative and jury assembly spaces. ities. Excessive traffic load on elevators thus can be • Greater adoption of computer systems and auto- minimized. mation in courts will affect future personnel • Escalators can move persons to and from their use, method of operation and space planning. destination on lower public floors more effec- • Renovation of office buildings for court use may tively than elevators. depend on structural column spacing (in older • Separate entrances should be provided for buildings usually 18-26 ft.). Courtrooms may judges, public and staff and prísoners. Prisoners require more substantial space than one struc- can be transferred by secured elevators or stairs, tural bay. A solution: use one structural bay as physically separated from public or judges' ele- the judicial area, surrounded on three sides by vators or stairs. jury, press and public spaces. With careful de- sign, four columns along the periphery can be • Floors above those used by the public may less conspicuous than one central column sur- house courtrooms and anciUary facilities, includ- rounded by four structural bays. ing conference rooms, robing rooms, witness rooms. temporary prisoner holding and inter- • AnciIIary facilities adjoining courtrooms, in gen- viewing facilities and offices for law assistants, eral, occupy 60-80 percent of courtroom space. A court reporters and interpreters. courtroom of 1,200-1,500 sq. ft. has approxi- mately 700-1,200 sq. ft. of adjoining anciUary • Spaces on courtroom floors should be subdivided facilities. into public, restrictive, private and secured spaces. Côurtrooms, public conference rooms • In large metropolitan court buildings, depart- and waiting rooms are readily accessible to the mental ofíices for court and personnel involved public; private conference rooms and depart- in the operation of each courtroom require mental offices are restrictive spaces; judges* rob- space three to four times the size of the court- ing rooms and chambers are private spaces; room. In small non-urban courthouses, such prisoner holding and interviewing facilities are offîces would require space approximately twice secured spaces. that of the courtroom. • There is a trend toward smaller courtrooms for • Departmental offices, including those for district hearings and trials. A few large courtrooms in attorneys, legal aid or public defender attorneys such facilities could be retained for calendaring and probation ofíicers, can be located above courtroom floors. Legal aid or public defender and motions procedures. and probation offîces are more accessible to the • Hearing rooms (for processing juvenile cases) public than the district attorney's (rffice. range from 600-800 sq. ft. Small size non-jury courtrooms range between 800-1,000 sq. ft. • Judges' chambers and related facilities can be Medium-size counrooms for general trials with located on floors above departmental offices. juries may require 1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Calendar- Among related facilities are law library and ing and motions courtrooms in large metropoli- judges' dining room which require private ac- tan courts may have a seating capacity of more cess. than 150 persons, requiring more than 2,500

97 sq. ft. The number of these very large court- in the design of interior spaces—for example, rooms, however, should be kept to a minimum. the use of sun-shading devices to reduce intemal • For handling arraignment cases, a medium-size load. courtroom can be used in conjunction with a • Office spaces> judges' chambers and depart* large adjoining public waiting area. Partidpants raental offices should have extemal windows* involved in the case being heard and those in both for natural lighting and for visual relief. the few following cascs would be present în the • Courtrooms can be without windows and ara- courtroom. Other participants in pending cases ficially lighted to create a constant environmeht, would wait in the pubiic waiting area until but it is advisable to provide some daylight to called. relieve monotony of complete enclosure. Sky- lights or clerestories also can be used to ad- Environmental vantage. • Most courthouses more than 20 years old, unless • Ambiance of many courthouse spaces should be recently renovated, have very poor lighting. In properly subdued—calm, dignified and business- renovation projects, careful checks should be like. But some contrasts in color, lighting and made of the type, intensity and color of light texture should be used to provide variations fixtures to evaluate their adequacy for persons without fragmenting a unified architectural performing specific tasks. concept. • Assigning judges to available courtrooms rather • In areas with more severe climate, all court- than having courtrooms assigned to each judge house spaces should be air-conditioned, if possi- will permit closing down the air-conditioning ble. At the very least, conditioned air should be systems on floors of unused courtrooms and an- provided for courtrooms, chambers and jury cillary facilities during low caseload and vaca- spaces. AIl courthouse spaces in regular use must tion periods. be heated where climate dictates, • In most old courthouses, periodical checks • Chambers and private offices along building should be made of electrical, heating, ventilat- walls with extensive glass exposure should have ing and air-conditioning (HVAC) and plumb- undersill air-conditioning units with individual ing systems to ensure proper maintenance of thermostatic control; internal spaces can be air- those systeras to service building needs. conditioned by a low-velocity, central-zoned sys- tem with centralized control. • Because courtrooms, ancillary spaces and judges* Securîty (See Chapter Five for a detailed discussion) charabers may be subject to irregular use, air- conditioning to these spaces should be con- • Security is a raajor consideration in the design trolled indîvidually where feasible to rainimize of a court building; especially those for use in operating costs. crirainal and faraily or doraestic relations cases. • In old court buildings, it is more economical to • Security measures can be developed in terms of cool small extemgil rooms with window cooling space planning concepts, detection and alarm units than to install a central air

98 f Devices to detect firearms, other weapons and of the concept of justice; its architecture should bombs should be evaluated for implementation express this ideal. when economically feasible, especially wh^n space planning and existing manpower alloca- • Courtroom size and shape should be determined uon techniques are inadequate. by functional and environmental requirements, the kinds of cases handled and tne routine • Alarm systems áctivated by foot-lift and knee- number of participants and spectators. touch devices in courtrooms, judges' chambers, district attorneys' offices and other critical spaces • Judicial functions of a trial or hearing can be should be evaluated and installed, whenever accommodated within an area of approximately 400 sq. ft. (without jury) and 600 sq. £t. (with appropriate. jury). • Each courtroom should be equipped with an intercom system connected directly to a central • Size of the public observation area in most court- security control station strategically located for rooms should be determined by the size of the rapid deployment of security personnel to jiU7 panel, usually 25 to 30 persons for a 12- spaces with security problems. man jury and 12-15 persons for a six-man jury, plus an additional 15-20 seats for tlie general • Court security officers should be adequately public. (After impaneling, additional seats be- trained in the use of firearms and in dealing come available £or the public.) with demonstrations or disturbances. • Public entering courtrooms should be searched • The trcnd is toward smallcr courtrooms (800- only as a last resort. Regular inspection of court- 1,200 sq. £t.) with a smaller number of large rooms and spaces easily accessible to the public courtrooras (1,500-2,500 sq. ft.) £or calendaring is desirable. and motions functions. • Courtrooms and ancillary facilities operating • Floor to-ceiling heights of small- to medium-sizc after working hours should be located on the courtrooms should be 10 to 15 ft, entrance level and lower floors. AU upper fioors • Height within a courtroom need not be uniform should be closed to the public to reduce load and should bc measured in terms of symbolic on elevators and to minimize vandalism and and environmental factors. (A courtroom might theft. be planned, for ínstance, with a central judicial • Public spaces such as toilets, rest rooms, lounges area highcr than surrounding public and jury and conference rooms, should not directly ad- arcas.) join courtrooms and should not have hung ceil- • Courtroom appearance and ambiance should be ings or objects and places suitable for planting restraincd, yet cheerful, with adequate light and bombs. By locating such public spaces away color contrast to relieve monotony. from the courtrooms, potential physical damage and disruption of court operation is reduced. • Environmental críteria should be determincd by the kind and extent of activities, and by the psychological response desircd from participants Implementation and spectators. • Courtrooms should have separatc entrances for • Successful implementation of a courthouse ren- spectators, prcss litigants, witnesses (public); ovation or construction project depends to a judge, jury, attomeys, court pcrsonnel, witnesses large extent on developing a good working re- (privatc); and prísoners and court officers lationship between the court and the local de- (sccurcd). partments of public works and city planning, the space planning consultant and the architect • Entrances and exits for partidpants should be and his consultants. carcfully grouped and located as closc as pos- sible to their stations in thc courtroom. • Projects can be implemented in phases, planned • AU participants in courtroora procecdings according to available budget. should be able to see and to hear cach other • Projects should be scheduled by Critical Path dearly. or similar methods for effective tirae and cost control and for optimum efficiency in implemen- • Distance of movement and conflicting movement tation. by participants during a trial or hearing should be minimizcd. • Successful implementation implies a centralized decision-making authority at the highest admin- • A courtroom does not function in isolation; its istrative level. nccessary anciUary fadlities indude robing room, jury dclibcration room, prisoncr holding fadlity, witncss isolation room and intcrview COURTROOM (See Table 10, page 58) room. • Courtroom fumîturc should bc an intcgral part • The courtroom should bc a symbolic cxtension of the architeaure, designcd to accommodate

99 human aaivities, Much of it can be movable for level commonly associkted with metropolitan flcxibility, colorful without being distracting centers. and durable for wcar and stain resistance. • Courtrooms should bc adequately air-condi- • Heavy fumiturc such as the judge's bench, tioned and vcntilatcd, and standard thermal derk's station, witncss box, jury box and attor- conditions should bc separately controUed in ncys' ubles can be constracted in modulax sec- each courtroom or group of courtrooms. tions £or rapid assembly, when neccssary. Mov- • An adequate number of electrical outlets should able chairs for the public should be avoided be locatcd ncar antidpated power equipment because of noise and pilfcrage problems. placement, e.g., sound recording equipment, am- • Provision should be madc for central recording plifiers, projectors, x-ray viewer, desk lamps, and of court procecdings; microphones should be so on. dcsigned as an intcgral part of courtroom fumi- • A separatc heating, ventilating and air-condi- turc, and spacc and personnel required for effi- tioning systcm should be installed to ser\ice dent operation shouid bc planned in advance. night and weekend courts. The main plant can • Courtroom intcríors should be designed to min- be shut down at night and during weekends. imize acoustical problemsr volume and distance should bc reduced in very largc courtrooms to control reverberation time (ideal, 0.8 to 1 sec- Judge*s Bench ond), thercby avoiding echoing effect. This can be accomplished by a hung ceiling or a reduc- • Symbolic of the administration of justice. tion in room size. • The judgc: • Courtroom shape should not be long or narrow - usually wears a bulky robe and requires a and walls should not bc parallel or finished in large armchair; sound-reflcctive materials. Such conditions - exercises protective influence over witnesses; would cause excessive sound fluttering. To alle- - views and hears all participants in courtroom; viatc this phenomenon, reduce room length, avoid the use of long parallel walls and finish - speaks loudly when addressing court, instrurt- with appropriate absorptive material. ing jurors, admonishing spectators; - speaks softly when conversing privately with • Courtroom shape, especially in the judicial area, attorneys and court clerks; should not be drcular and constructed with re- flectivc materials. Concave suriaces focus sound - passes exhibits and documents to attoraeys at the center. and court clerks. • In the large courtrooms, walls at the front of the • The height and area of the judge's bench and courtroom should be of reflective materials so platform should appropriatcly express the role that sound generated from the judicial area is of the judge and the dignity of the court. The reflected to the public seating area at the rear judge's eyc level when he is seated should be of the courtroom. If the shape of the ceiling at higher than any other participant or spectator, the front of thc courtroom were curvilinear, the standing or seated. ceiling could bc reflectivc; but as it is normally • The judge's bench can bc constructed in mod- flat, absorptivc materials are preferred. ular sections for easc in moving. • Walls and cciling at the rear of the courtroom • The judge's bench should be equipped with (or (around the public seating area) should be fin- provision be made for) a microphone connected ished with absorptive materials to prevent sound to an amplifier controlled either by the judge from reflecting back to the judicial area, creat- or the clerk. ing echoing effects. • The judge's bench should have a 4- to 6-in.-high • The floor of the courtroom should be finished railing around the work surface; the work sur- with carpet or padded vinyl, especially in the face should slope toward the judgc to prevent judidal area, for noise reduction. attomeys from seeing documents on the judge's • Every courtroom should have a sound lock or bench. share one with an adjoining courtroora. By de- • Thc judge should be able to communicate with signíng the sound lock so that one set of doors his secretary in chambers directly by a tele- would generally be closed before the other set phone/intercom system. is opened, noise transmission level from public • TTie judgc should be able to alert, without de- waiting or drculation spaces can be minimized. tection in the courtroom, a central security con- • FuUy air

100 court participants through a loudspeakcr sys- purpose should be part of the witness box de- tem during an cmcrgency. sign. • Witness box should be movable and, perhaps. Attomeys' and Litigants' Stations constmcted as a modular unit. • Floor levcl of the witness box should be slightly • Attorneys usually are dccply involved during lower than that of the judge's bench. court procedurcs, and the physical cnvîronmcnt • The witness box should be equipped with a should be condudve to this condition. microphone connccted to an amplifier con- • Attomeys and litigants should bc able to confer trolled by the judgé or the clcrk. Many witnesses in privatc at thcir stations without being over- are nervous and tend to speak very softly. Am- heard by jurors, opposing attorneys, opposing plifícation of witncss' tcstimony is of special im- litigants or by others in thc courtroom. portance to thc court reporter. • Attomeys should be ablc to movc easily from thcir stations to a lectem, the judgc's bcnch, Jury Box court dcrk's station, court reporter's station, jury box and witncss box. • Jurors often serve at personal sacrifice of time • Attorneys and litigants should be able to see, and moncy; thcy deserve the courtesy of the hear, and be seen and hcard by judge, witnesses, court and of tríal participants. Thc fadlities in court clerk, jurors and court reporter. the courtroom should be adequate, unobstrac- • Distance should bc approximatcly equal be- tivc and well-designcd for their necds. tween the attorncys' stations or lectem, witness • Jurors should be adequately separated from the box, jury box and judge's bcnch. public to avoid interference and improper in- • Attorneys handle and examine exhibits and flucncc. legal documents; their stations should be ade- • A bailiff or court officcr should be located be- quately lighted to enablc them to rcad fine prínt tween jurors and the public to prevent com- on legal documents. munication bctwcen them. • Each attomey's station should be cquippcd with • Jurors should be adequately separated in dis- (or provisions madc for) a microphone con- tance—a minimum of 6 ft.—from attomeys and nected to an amplifier controllcd either by the litigants to prevent their overhearing prívate judge or the clerk. conversations. • In criminal tríals, jurics are selected and im- Witncss Box paneled in court before the judge. • Many voluntecr witnesses testify at pcrsonal sac- • In civil trials, juries can be selected and im- rificc of time, and money and at thc rísk of be- paneled either m courtrooms or in jury impan- ing harmcd; they deserve thc courtesy of the eling rooms. court and oí tríal partidpants. • Non-encroachment distance of 6 ft. from the jury box can be enforccd by the prcsiding judge. • When not testifying, witnesses in controvcrsial trials should be isolatcd for their safety and • Jurors should be able to see, be seen and to protection. hear attorneys, judge, witncsscs, court clerk. • Wintesses may be under cmotional strain; con- • During cxamination of witnesses, all jurors sequently, the cnvironmental conditions in should be able to see attomeys and witnesses as which they wait should be calm and cheerful. close to full face as possible. • Witnesses arc entitled to the protection of the • Jurors reccive, examine and retum exhibits; court and the judge who scrvcs as the impartial fixed or hinged shelves should be designed as an arbiter. intcgral part of the jury box on its outside sur- face for rcsting largc exhibits. • Non-encroachment distance betwccn attorneys and witnesses should bc at least 6 ft. • Jury box can be constructed in easily movable modular sections to fadlitate a more flexible and • Witnesses should bc able to sec, and be seen as close to full facc as possiblc, and to hcar at- cfficient use of space. torncys, judge, court clerk and jurors. • Jurors should be located on the same side of • When answering attomey's questions, witncsses the judge as is the witness. should be dearly scen and heard by attomcys, • Floor lcvel of the highest ticr of thc jury box judge, jurors and court reporter. should be slightly lowcr than that oí the judge's • Witncsscs on thc stand rcccivc, examine, and bench. retum exhibits. A fixcd or hinged shelf for this • Depending on the layout of the courtroom, ît is

101 Appendix

Standards and Statistics Check List Courts Facilities Design AARON GREEN

COURTROOMS 1. ^ The Judges'Bench a. Location 1) Facing room and spectators 2) View of entire room and clock 3) View of witness 4) View of jury box 5) View of recorder 6) Viewof clerk 7) View of attomeys 8) Easy hearing range of above (10* -15') b. Access 1) Easy access to chambers 2) Not to cross public area to enter 3) Entry by door close to bench 4) Entry in full view of court 5) Pre-view of courtroom by judge prior to entry (port in door or similar method) c. Height 1) Floor elevated 12" to 20" above main floor d. Width—determined by type of court 1) Municipal courts: one judge 2) Superíor courts: one judge 3) Appellate courts: several e. Desk area 1) No glare or extra-bright lights 2) Space for books, papers, notes 3) Adequate leg room 4) Floor carpeted 5) Arrange shape to allow judge to take notes with right hand when viewíng witness f. Judge's chair or chairs 1) Movable, swivel 2) Comfortable 3) Designed for long periods of sitting

72

102 4) Arm support 5) Back support 6) Dignified appearance g. Spedal equipment 1) Provision for microphone and control (optional re acoustics) 2) Optional telephone (non-rínging—cfdl out only) 3) Flag stands as requíred (portable or fixed) h. General appearance 1) Focal point for entire proceedîngs 2) Accent the role of judge 3) Bespeaks the dignity of the law i. Stractural considerations 1) Firm, solid constraction; elevated floor and bench 2) Wear and stain resistance 2. The Witness Stand a. Location 1) Fadng the spectators and jury 2) Visible and audible from jury box 3) Visible and audible from attoraey's table 4) Often on judge's left but may be on right if bench shape provides for judge's note-taking with ríght hand 5) At least three-quarter view of witness' face by judge

b. Access—from main floor c. Height 1) Above floor level (approximately 8") 2) Below judge's bench d. Width—space for one medium chair e. Chair 1) Fixed pedestal, swivel arm chair, or optional: chair with casters if on carpet f. Spedal equîpment 1) Microphone outlet or (provision for future) 2) Ledge in front of witness 16" to 18" deep g. Appearance—emphasis on occupant, not on chair 3. The Jury Box a. Location 1) Visibility and easy hearíng range of: a) Judge b) Witness c) Attoraeys d) Exhibits 2) On same side of judge as witness b. Access 1) Enter and depart by a separate door nearby

103 2) Entry also via spectator area gate (to be used in calling jury) c. Height 1) Raised above main floor level 6" to 12" 2) Not above height of witness stand 3) Lower than judge's bench d. Chairs 1) 12 to 14 chairs (îf 12, allow space for alternates) 2) Swivel, fixed pedestal arm chairs (front row may be loose chairs at table) 3) Chosen for comfort and prolonged sîtting e. Spedal equipment: 1) Microphone for foreman of jury (optional: related to room acoustics if not initially installed, allow empty conduit for future instaDation related to probability of future central recording of court proceedings) f. Stractural considerations 1) Sturdy and non-resonant floor, reiils, etc. 2) Wear and stain resistance 3) "Modesty shield" at jiuy box rail 4) Table across front of box considered good (may be used for opposing counsel in non-jury tríals) g. Appearance 1) Pleasant but neutral 2) Color choices important to be related to entire room 4. ^ Desks for Court Clerk, Reporter and Bailiff a. Locatîon 1) Reporter—locate near front of witness stand 2) Clerk—adjoining but below judge (able to pass objects to judge) 3) Bailiff—at edge of room central to spectator area and litîgation area b. Access 1) To main floor area 2) From restrícted corrídor 3) Bailiff—from prísoner holding cell c. Height 1) On main floor level 2) Below witness stand 3) Belowjudge d. Equipment and furniture 1) Transcríbing machine for recorder 2) Telephone for court clerk 3) Space for two movable swivel arm chairs at clerk's desk station 4) Armless "posture" chair for reporter plus small table 5) Arm chair at small table for bailiff

5. J Attomeys' and Litigants* Table a. Location

104 1) On main floor level 2) Visible and audible to rest of court 3) In front of judge 4) Accomodate 8 chairs b. Access 1) To main floor level litigation area c. Height 1) Standard table heîght d. Special equipment 1) Optional microphone outlet( s) 2) Movable arm chairs e. Stractural considerations 1) Tables sohd, heavy and sturdy 2) Durable top 3) Non-glare surface Press Facilities a. When needed 1) Local pob'cy determines whether separate table and chairs are provided 2) Spectator seats equipped with "tablet arms"—minimum provision b. Location—in front row spectator^s area

Public Facilities (Spectators) a. Location 1) Rear of courtroom 2) View of proceedings 3) Audibility of proceedings b. Access 1) From public hallway -^ 2) Traditionally double doors (pair) a) Opening outward per exit requîrements b) Sound retardant entry constraction c) Small viewing window, common in door d) Quiet closing and opening doors e) Leading to central aisle f) Visible to judge and bailifí g) Spectator area separated by rail from litigation area c. Number of spectator seats 1) 100 to 120 for largest courtrooms 2) 50 to 75 for normal courtrooms: determine by minimum requirements for calling jury d. Seatîng equipment 1) Best; upholstered, individual, auditorium type (comfort and acoustical superíoríty) 2) Fair; plywood, individual, theater type 3) Poor; pew-bench type

105 e. Lighting intensity—not as strong as litigation area; no glare f. Special equipment • sound reinforcement only if required by character of acoustics g. Stractural considerations 1) Sturdy, vandal-resistant construction 2) Quiet operation of moving parts of seats 3) Easily cleaned 4) Proper leg room h. Appearance 1) Attractive but not dominating 2) Gîve texture, înterest, and acoustical surface when empty Other Courtroom Facilities a. Clock—prominent wall location b. Chalkboard: magnetic display tj^e, built-in or portable or both; with arrangement for holding cut sheets or roll paper c. Display board (tack board): built-in or portable or both d. Electrícal outlets e. Projection screen: built-in or portable f. X-ray viewer: built-in or portable g. Locked closet for storíng exhibits, display equipment, projector, etc. The Courtroom Proper a. Location 1) Isolated from noise 2) Good public access b. Access 1) Public: spectators; press; litigants; witnesses 2) Restrícted official access a) Judge b) Jury c) Attoraeys d) Bailiff e) Scheduled witnesses c. Lightîng 1) Artîficial lighting preferred a) No outside windows b) Uniform lighting—no glsure c) Provision to darken room for films 2) Natural daylighting not preferred a) Uneven lighting b) Distractions in view c) Difficult to darken room d) Windows difficult tô soundproof d. Dimensions 1) Width: 32' to 34' optimum 2) Depth: determine by extent of spectator seats 3) Height: a) Determine by acoustical and aesthetic conditions b) Maintain spacious character

106 Acoustics 1) Extremely important 2) Determine acoustical surfacing requirements of front, back, and side walls and ceilings 3) Determine acoustical requirements of floor covering, upholstery, etc. 4) Minimîze background noise levels provided by mechanical equipment 5) Soundproof agcdnst transmission of all exterpal noises Wall treatment 1) Wood paneling common re traditional concept of court 2) Important acoustical consideration Floor coveríng 1) Carpet best in litigation area 2) Quiet floor covering in spectators area also desirable if budget allows Drínking fountain - to avoid distractions, preferable in public areas outside of courtroom Heating and air conditioning system 1) Must be quiet 2) Must be sensitive to load changes 3) Thermostatic control separately for each courtroom

B. COURTROOM RELATED FACILITIES 1. Official Use Only Corrídor a. Location—adjoining courtroom b. Access directly to: 1) "^ Litigation floor of courtroom 2) Jury room 3) STudges' chambers 4) Other courtrooms 5) "^Judges' bench 6) Jury box 7) Witness room 8) Attoraeys conference room 9) Bailiff's office (when required) 10) Evidence storage facilities—general storage 11) Court officials elevator and entry c. Access indirectly to: (via public areas o.k.) 1) Distríct attoraey's office 2) Public defender and guardian 3) Attoraeys lounge 4) Law library 5) Clerk's offices 2. Judges' Chambers a. Location 1) Close to courtroom 2) View window preferred 3) Freedom from distracting noise

107 b. Access 1) Official use only corrídor (preferable) 2) Other exit if possible 3) Or from courtroom (not flexible) 4) Direct access to secreatry's office adjoining chambers c. Dimension —16' x 18' to 20' optimum. Larger optional. smaller not recommended d. Minimum furaishings 1) Large desk 2) Swivel arm chair 3) Table or counter behind desk 4) Several other arm chairs 5) Book shelves e. Judges' prívate lavatory 1) Toilet 2) Wash basin 3) Mirror 4) Medicine cabinet f. Judges'closet—space for coat and robe 3. Secretary's Office and Reception a. Location 1) Between judges' of fice and corrídor 2) Buffer for judges' visitors b. Access to: 1) Offidal use only corrídor 2) Judges' office c. Dimensíons to be determined by specific occupancy requirements d. Furnishîngs 1) Desk or desks 2) File cabinets 3) Public waiting chairs 4) Telephone 5) Storage closet or cabinets 4. Judges' Separate Libríuy (optional, not common) a. Depends on budget and desire of judges b. Normally book shelves available in judges chambers c. Accessibility to law library a consideration 5. Jury Room a. Location 1) Close to court room b. Access 1) By offidal use only corrídor 2) To court room via corrídor c. Size

108 1) Approximately 450 square feet optimum 2) Accomodate proper furniture arrangement d. Facilities 1) Separate toilet facilities for men and women 2) Coat closet 3) Phone outlet (with removable phone outside jury room for use by bailiff) e. Furnishings 1) Large table 3'6" X 12'0" 2) 12 chairs for jurors 3) Extra chairs for other meetings if such use contemplated f. Stractural considerations 1) Privacy control for windows 2) Soundproofing important 3) Adequate air conditioning g. Appearance 1) Restful 2) Comfortable h. Other possible uses of secondary importance 1) as heaiing room 2) as conference room 3) as a witness waiting room 6. Witness Waiting Room or Attoraey's Conference Room a. Location - dose to courtrooms b. Access - to offidal use only corrídor c. Furnishíngs (variable) 1) Table3'x8' 2) Armchairs • 10 to 12 d. Spedal equipment - telephone outlet e. Uses 1) For witnesses waiting to appear 2) Conference room or committee room 7. Attoraey/Witness Individual Conference Rooms a. Location—dose to courtrooms b. Access—to offidal use corrídor c. Furnishings 1) Table 2'6" X 4'0" 2) 3 chairs d. Constraction—soundproof 8. Jurors' Assembly Room a. Size (varíes) 1) 15 square feet per person seated 2) Auditoríum type layout or movable seats if multi-purpose

109 b. Lavatoríes—separate men's and women's adjoining room c. Access 1) To public corrídor 2) To official use only corridor d. Special facOities—drínking fountain in close proximity

110 /h l@a@©lí@(o] [i^3 o)a3®(giorgiíg)S^w

A.I.D. Associates Inc. "City of Decatur," pamplet. Dallas: A.I.D. Associates, Inc, 1984.

Ameracan Judicature Society. Courthouses and Courtrooms. , 1972. 81 pp.

An Introduction to Texas County Government, Austin. Texas Advisory Commission on Intergovernment Relations. 1980.

A Courthouse Conservation Handbook, D.C. Preservation Press of National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1976. 75 pp.

Courthouses of the Commonwealth, Amherst. The University of Massachusetts Press, 1984. 186 pp.

Iventory of County Records, Wise County Courthouse, Austin. Center for Community Services, North Texas State University and Archives Division, Texas State Library, 1975. 101 pp.

"James Riely Gordon Collection, Architectural Drawings Collection, the University of Texas at Austin."

Kidney, Walter C. Working Places. Pittsburgh; Ober Park Associates, Inc, 1976. 172 pp.

Robinson, Willard B. The People's Architecture. Austin, 1983. 365 pp.

Shlaes & Co. Economic Benefits from Rehabilitation of Certified Historical Structures in Texas. Chicago, March 15, 1985.

Shopsin, William C. Restoring Old Buiídings for Contemporary Uses. New York: Watson-Guptill Publications, 1986. 208 pp.

StahC Frederick A. A Guide to the Maintenance, Repair, and Alteration of Histor Buildings. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, 1984. 184 pp.

111

íefQf ifefLaiigtiiíaf i

The preservation of Wlse County's Courthouse has changed írom the beginning concept. The original title of the program was to be The Preservation and Renovation of Wise Countu Courthouse. Today, the title is The Preservation of the Essence of the Perfect Building. Wise County Courthouse. This title is more becorning for the program smce the development of the Thesis project and the presentation of completed product.

Vi/ise County's Courthouse has failed to obtain the proper acknowledgement that it deserves. its "'tvv'in" sister courthouse in Ellis County, Wachihachie, has received national acclaimation and Vv^ise C unty's Courthouse deserves just as rnuch. Several factors may be the reason that it has yet to obtain its full potential. Through evaluation of current problems and proper responses to those conditions it should receive some of that credit it deserve;o .

The differences betv^een the courthouses are slight. The use of materials and the handling of the entrances are the prirnary ones. These differences are aclually the result of Gordon's experimentation of native Te as materials. The floor plans are basically the same and Gordon even submitted this (patended) plan on several occassions for other courthouse contest.

Sûlutions to raise the av^areness of people's attention about the courthouse involve several factors. Amoung these include removal of portions that have been added, the so called modernization of the structure. These elernents actually decrease the visuallization of the courthouse.

The rnajor concern it the preservation of the extenor facade and sile conditions of the courthouse itself. The íolîowing factors each a result of the development to the Thesis project. Each offer a solution to raise the level of the awareness or offer a sollution to space management.

The site is to be enhanced by the following ideas.

The roplawiiUTignt of all vegatation that has been dispalced.

The site porimeters are to be chonged to enhQnce Gordon's concern of placing the entrances as close to the town square as possible. This ínvolves removal of the corner parking areas and replacing it with pavers and the addítíon of curb cuts for handicapped accesssment. Also, hexagon raised planters are to be added for pedestrian comfort and to shade the expanded area of pavers required for sidewalks. This shading is crucial for ma>cimum use of natural ventilation of the courthouse itself. The current street lighting is to be replaced with street lamps more fitting to the era that it would have been installed. These are to be dropped globe similar to those used in the interior of the courthouse. The current night lighting system is to be ground mounted fixtures with additional fiíítures used on the upper levels to prevent the shadows that are currently created.

The hexagon pavers are to be completely replace and added to those areas that have been filled in with poured concrete.

The one most singular elernent for the preservation of the exterior facade is the removal of the applied fire stairs at the northwest entrance. The stair ís the dominant element of the north and west elevations and offensive in its appearance. Primarily unaccessible it serves itself for all practical purposes. It is to be replaced (removed) by a mterior stairwell that is readily accessible by all levels and should serve not only for code purposes, also as a direct connection between floors.

The ground mounted cooling systems that surround the courthouse and those on the second floor balconies are to be rernoved as well as the window units in several of the basement ievel spaces and replaced by a central HAVC sytem. Not only does this improve site visualibility it prevents thermal shifts of the structure. Thermal shifts in older structures can cause structural problems and in a building of this magnitude could be costly to repair.

Any additional elements on the site besides those that are historícal in nature are to be be removed and/or placed at a aUernative site.

The cAÍên r materials are to be cleaned with a restroration cleaner and high pressure hot water to rernove Texas dirt for a clean appearance. It is then to be protected by a weather seal aoolied through a airless spray method. Políshed rnarble is to have a liquio ciearier ^pplied to it and removed bu its prescribed

The entire structures mortor joints ore to be thoroughly e amined and those areas requiring repointing are to be done so by recommended methods. The appearance and performance are important in the duplication of original elements.

A11 exterior plaster surfaces are to be examined for their repair The overhang on the West elevation is completely rnissing and should be immedíately repaired as well as its backing íf investigation determínes poor supportibility. The second floor balcony ceiling over the southwest entrance is also in poor condition. It has allow its coverability of the steel members to be exposed to the elements allowing the mernber to rust. The members should be carefully examined and then immediately covered with a epoxy to prevent further deteriation until a more permenant solutíon is found.

Another concern at the southwest entrance is the movement of the arches that are over the entrance door and the walk. B'oth have developed lines of cracks and should be periodically monítored to determine if farther movernent is occurring.

The so-called modernization of the structure involved replacernent of the doors and framing with aluminum framing and íiy.eú glass. These are to be replaced with wooden framing consistant to the original members. These should be determined through examination of old photographs.

The modernization also replaced sorne of the original double-hung windows with fixed pane windows. These are not in character with the Richardson Romanesque style and are to be replaced as well the rernainder of the windows with a replicated window. Ever window is to be duplicated ín profile from the original window in oak, with the addition of insulated glass for energy conservation. A11 exterior wood work is to be painted as determined from scrappings to determine original color

Roofíng material consist of clay tile. Visually more than 10 percent of the tile requires replacement above a acceptable level requiring the entire roofing system to be replaced. Since it is to be entirely replaced the' recommendation of replacing with Gordon's specification of blue slate should be considered. Since economics disallow the use of slate, a clay tile colored to that of the specifíed slate is considered. This one element would chanqe the appearance of the courthouse considerably and would required extreme publification beforehand for its public ãccepîance.

The copper spheres on the cone elements of the roof ore missing. These were either never applied or have been broken off since. Ellis County's courthouse still contains these elements and their duplication for placement onto Wise County's courthouse is recommended.

The tower requires several modifications The first is to oigeon proof through physical methods. Another solution, in addition to this, is the use of chemical means for pigeon control. The clock requires surface reconditioning. The clock is be encased in glass to prevent farther deteriation. The clock mechanical system is to be repaired and/or replaced as well as the rehamrnering of the bell.

U.6. 3&0

,5 inr E. 1

^ ^^JS> IV

g)ID£V/AJLK6.-

lo' A6ho6S

(jDslDniOtJ.

\^. tP.Nv TP,Be. 't^*''^ ^*-*^ f^ertoveo -f/^W-''

í^^uiOE'*'

'•^'^^JSÍî^^^Í^ '9*-- i/::;Hít^íi-tííiûr-' VAULT- ^^^^ FHemoVAU op F\1»>E ^T^lPy^,

A.vio PouShÍEt? - FbT=^oJ^&r ' iLlDE íx> • ^t4oWS v4A lDP^iL-b

R^^- MA^ feeeJ FS&MovBo.

"|4AJOIC>^-PPIE.P Ar:c-EiSS -

ybpsTici.e f,UPSP^-£S-,t3rp.iPPeP

|4ASÍDRA\L^- erfcErL- -e^TF^iPPeD

" ^LíDE 7' -bf^oWb VI&W DíPwJ PAHP. Wihlt?ow6:

VlUcDWS: OMGílt-ÍAL OÍACTER'

plt RtCT C0UPsXF\OOcH-

(^f: x^^*=? Pv4cr\0

Fiy.E.t> f^A<4e: VJitAt>ouo6:

DI^T\:XA^-[S- Dtoes bloT PK^T^^i^ TO 1?v\C^A Pfn^sl ^OMAvie^OO^ *bTYLF=:'< Aoo\Tioi4 ôP TVle WiMc^oWS

uvi A^p^=^p^svice.

t)oocMjOA^rt> '. ^LUITIIVÍUH pv^Arlî íiiTe

LVIslooW U'^seP FOFS 'ACXlEÆfe

^UTVÍ 6lC^- V^'bUA.L Ol'b'TW-CTlo i ':/^^^^m7!: MOPTTAFL J01SÍ"TS-

MûKÍAÍ^ Joi ÍT^ AJD FÍ£.POIÍJTIIJ<Í^

COLOf< Of OLD l-nOPsTAR MU^T ie)E lMATChJ£0. .PP^tViOU^ ATTBriPrb I4AVB fbEEutJ UNl-bUCCE65FUl-* ^HPnbiT^Ovi WITM MAJOP. fif POIbJTl JíT Ti45S- APPMOPPjlATE HOt=STAP. -S>^40UUD lt>^ DeTEP>M\Met> TVIPOUÚTH >Û. CM&Pl\CAJ_ AklAL.ye>\6. TAKe, CAP^E: TÚ r7lATCi4 £3P^lCrll^AL HOP\TAP. PVC V4^PN ThÍA l A P^EiViOUS PiE:P0lMTlHC3r Jofo.

T^VSE ITT^POP^TAhlT /i4 TWt PUPUHCATIOH OP ^RICíiKl/wL ELErt7\E:i4T5,

fc>E:ADE.D JDIKÍTS) JôlkÍT pPiEiPAW!TíOLÍ: Ar^iJiMuH DEPTbi C5»= y-v i»-*ctA i^ PvEicortMeiJDe^'Oi P\&COrlFlÊ:NlDeP PiOUTVl^C TEoA ilQUES •îbP»u5M"isiC, • aLomiMCT/\OAf)Hl\4Cl • v4^4o cHit>E-í-i l6r-

-íJúT COPl PATA^L-fc To IÍ'PVICTINÍAL -APPLIEO r^OPiTAp^-

•4i^:ii/i/ <í.;*í^'^l î íi' >*

^- AKJTEIJKÍ^-^PPLIHO)

/-^v i^i^-/&"-j:i^^

^^•|^-M^*áfÃ>y^jjft^...>^>s«á>*^y^^^ '>îV^, l p -Hi:^". r^æ.v\ r^^-: fe*SsíM#tÍ*S fe>íí.'íVir~^ •TMr^ "-vf.^

V m Í:N'C 't^ ^.. ^m'^í A.í' \. S^' ::Í^.

^:

i«í.' M.??• i^ s^ •^t^ X' vK>l J^%^ m^'m fc^ wr

1 ^ Al fcALCO>ijE5 -WE^r aL£VATloU AP»E NIOT V\

OVEBMASICI PLAeTET\ POPTlOlJb AÎSE COHPLETT ^ Mltíbll^C^ TTPE OP -,&ACVC\vJCr MATEPvlAL- Aslc> CPA7=^|7\ii.\ab\4iP Of P^E.PA\Px APSE TO îbB. E:*orAfbU5HEJP

^ePLAt^TE^ rAW P^Eccn^lHEUDATioJ*:? AP»€LTO P5e= E^TAE>USHEJ:>

"bL^DP ô- 'il^OWS í?VB.t2ALL VlE:W oF= ARSVÍ-S ÍD F iT&eoS Píí?R PLA6TBFS W^P»K.

^.A.-":/.A./l\ JXX^J^ bALC-O^JV CEILIKICT PLA^TEPV l^ /ri AIÍJTATE C?F- oi^PíEPAlB- //

CUT T^P\0UGJ E:\JT\PIE APít A , , TO DETE:.P%MMJe *T>4iCK lebe A^ID'IÍ ftíACKiMOr MATBP^IAL,

TUE ADDiTlOîJb Of UCTJJTS MJCrMr ,??Ê: C0|J5\DEFSE:D PÔP» THB F/fiû4- PVAA^B. ^y-^&^^OPi - IPp^^l ÍAÛrE*. U I I I I I I I I < I I H=pp

•CoPPEI^ PÛUJVJSJPOUT-S- ATTAct4nEl^T fA^TerJeB^.' , , , PíEPLACEi-nBíJr oF UDHELI p^ePA\Rií^ A vy í:?r? P>ePLACe.r\E:l4T OP DPAISJACTE ^T'=''^EÍ^. COPPeP^ ^R ît^FSoJsE: CLIP5 P^OTEcT\Ue COATIhiCc TO P ^fcVE:AT ^TOKIE Dl'bCOtjOUPATlOK*.

PEAcE^rtEAU APpPOACt^ ^ OP P^EP'AIP^'S t> v-bTPAcrio i í^eH E:JT :

6LlDE^ 12; DRAIKIACTEAT

TAft 6TA\KÍ

Ml'R'bii-l^ Tll-£-^ _, _, THFSfou&H-ûLlT PiOOF

\p \o PfcP^c&tJr Í3PTI-IE. 2.SÍT\P^& W30F UAS DETBWOPA -^AU &»JTlRê Pv&PWSsC&rlE+JT ,

CHUTTEPN COPPEFS

^LIDE 11:): FSOOF DETAI 5**1

P^C PlPE

?\t.PLAO£. WUÍPouJ PAslfc. \juiTl-l rAi^TcHí/Ja íflA^*b CoLOPs At4r> TUicKUfc5b*b.

.TPHICAL WlRlt-i<^ AlbOVE í^POuUo E:L-ECTí>lCAL WiP>lWGt \Co A Vl*bU D^'bTp^CTlObi.

COPPEP^ RlDCrE, OiJ TUÊ TOLOPJS ^AíJp Po/ lPb ^^c>uu:> f^ t-xArli ÍE^D røFS T>4eiP. PcrTE:(£riAL POPN Pst-U

'bLVDE: lO : C^PPEPi POINITS ÛP ToUitf^ A lp A-VSIT&JNIAÍ)

P»t^r\0YAU OF

'PICTEOIJ Pfií>OP CP TûWER'

COPPÊP^ •^COPPEH RlOCc15:4

PVC ^Llppp-T

^corlPLít?^4 ÊJÆCTP^ICAL

*bL\DE \\ '•' S\4<:>vuL>o waACt3 KiíûûJpw PVC 4 Wins\i4cr

CaPFE^Í\

VOIC£. AHpUiHCATlOsi WA U/ lCr 'ôH'^Tfeir^

TAPv -bTAllJs^

ff^ ;:i^, vi:;.^ 'S^;;:^ ÍWV^^Íiivli^w^^: W>îc^- Pl6íEôU PPSOO ^Í^ÍCI • CUP,P.Et-lr 'poLUTiOt^, UOCK lÔVE-K: l^ A^L\E=C> Cl-liCV-*\PíE^ OVE^VN '^AT SOLUTlOl^ \^ lli^Ofc-aU'^Te TO ^=^fc.VE:HT ACCE^^ OP P\C,feOh*>.

,vA^\4vu\A \^»^J^

iloviir b P.vsfe »4 ^ ^^^^ PEC.P>ee ^F

-bL^DpE:. \4t : OLOCK T0WEP>

Cuoc P-í!-ces ;s

piecfWio*-*- ^vU> =TS DPíiUe

pu^J l.s. bALCOtJ^ee U'bEC Fí?P> MOUKITIJÍ, í,pnA.U^ U Jlte.

G-P^OUSID Mou ireD U^IIT^D D^^TFSACI

•*^-Ki

it U'b^D iT Hu->T t .E op^J-.T^NÍr rUP^uûM ouT U^ai^ív.iLe

WIUDOW UMIT

LowEP^ ROOH^: e)A6ErtÊ/Jr, APPL.ÍBOW»IJDOW u liiS.—

c-otlt?iTIO}J GF^OUIJD fuooFS.

PEACfcHlEAL VlPíl iCr ApPPOACt4

PUFbLlC TE:\^E.Pf4o\4E:: - iJoT IÍJOLATEP POPS PPilVAC^

Í;UP/^E|JT FlP^Ê: EXTlNlí?Ul6\4iiJcr

4Mo.. PiPvE: ^AFt:Tr 6Y-bTeHS Cur2.t^E !?L7 TtTILl'tEP. ' /

EVPo-b iP EUECTRICAL WIMhJcr

CElLislq^ rAtd \S/\TY\ A CrU)lbE LiCcMTi 46r F/yTur^£ PROVIDE C^P^PvlDc?!^ UúrV^TlMCr MvJ CIRCULA TlO|4 ARE^A-o. €:^t

FLOORI/JG- VERMOSJT MAP^&LE- MO^AIC TILE

TUTTI COLOfiS HlCtAATTi

REFl J/^hJlíJcT IUTE:.P^|ÍPR MARfoUE. •APPLT A \_Ací3Ut^ ORPA//JT PífeMoVfeS^ 'Re.MôVer/uu :coAr/Je WiThí rUMSATUP^ATfe UAÔ ÍOPTEW&DD CLûTl4í > , ^p^fepfc/î^r ukiTiL Pisli<,/4e=s HÍ^VE v&eecJ fSErtoV£.D. - SCP>u& ^L4Pi"PAC& WlTH A WlLD , t?&T&F»vCrE;HT ArJp RfNee Wl TH CLfe^lU WATe_P,. , , - FbUF=:>:^v4 A J*^ cauor=^ PiC^HfcNTArioM WtTH A CotMt7\E:RC)AL CLfeAlUl£:.F^. - ALUOSV TO PULUT PPvT-i • APPUJ A PE|S1Í=LT^3,AT/MÍÍ- ^feALfeR

" ^LlDE- 15.' THIPVP PUOOP*.

\>f>û.uU P\V1\6VÍE& AtMÊ: \>J CrOOP COJDÍT\0I4

EyTE-PslOR MAP^foLE 16 IKÍ &>b^e^ A í»Af=&rT HA^AP^D.

e>M ftu lv4\N£t íT i i a:)UDuiTo iP o THle 6UF\PACE.CArtOUFLACi.tD te^, ptOUD\HC|€» At-lD OP>HAp\\=^srrAT\OíU

TUÉ^ a6E OP AuVlLiAtH^ t»PACE.6 Í»UC|4 A*s TLlir>t>E: USEp FOP^ t-7tEcHAr4\C>sL - ?PACEe) ^\4oUUD f je^ iulC£?PvP£?'FAV EÆ.

EUc^TPiVCAL ipi^iU \NÍ P yL^HE\4T 'cipa%ouLATiotu '^PACE-,

r^ÊTAu cotdpuiT TMAT \4AS vJor reE^ KJ PA\ SÍTE.D.

Wl-\EP^E TV4EP\E. HA^ fe&.BLl COJDU\T ADPBD J HOIÆ.^ H4AVE: Pbe-E:isi HADE; WITMOMT AOOVTÍONUWL PitPAiR\ADfe. To T-HE. PLA-bT£Ps PLA- iTEP^ TMAT MAS íbEiEkJ AMA&E^J^ ^T "^^^E ADDiT/OM ^F TÍ4& d^:?JoU rr. .

^y 'f: w

DAMACTEO PL6.-bT£Px (^Co^ty\^T\C)

îltf^Pv 60U JD CEJ^lev^T PLA^TEPv CC>*bHET\C FbLEp{l'pv4e> 6P PLA^TEP^ 6H0ULD teE^ P)EPA\PvP-pi I TV4E: F0LL0U)/\4CT

cer^thJr STUCC^?." n-oAT FAc^'urÍTvu v>y\op^^ T&KPUPVE reFFfccT/ ^FOPsU l^Ui^D CElViBl4r PLAÍíTS^ P^eMo'^&, ALL Uslí»ûU/4r:> APSE:/^ CoHPLíE:T\ajJT . Vt\=S\'PT \ )AC\<\ l6t oK TUe. bASE C£:>hlomí^/J. I i

t>ArnA£,ED PLA'bTeP^ fft^"^'-

MEsJ^ P^E'bTPvOOM ADDiTlOl4 "bRD FLOOP) ADDlTloJ fbALCoJr Af^EA

D6.17'. ViEW OF INJTERÍOR

COU|4T^ CDUfST P^OOH U/li4o3VjO

HEjJ'b PiE6TPvOOH

Foui^Tfl To ObTAisJ ACCE5Í5 To CotJr. ^TA\P\^ ^TAiRe- íloHpLErE REH^VAL OF PAi JT ' E-vAuuATe erptucrupi-û-L i4A?peuiH( - ^tS-LÊ^cTNO J OPOP^ICTIKIAL COLOP\ TUp^OUCí'f^ fc4ver^TlCTAT\OM OP rirAE: PEP»(OD I COi-OPJDU:>Í=^x u^bes. AL^O, A r^\AC:ct4i"PicAnoH â>^ A t>E:LlE.CTEX) ^Ar?\p\-t..

OP»slA|-r\ttJTAlL 6CULPrUP,AL &LEP1E\4T OKÍ 'bTAtp.^^- pi-OVjJE:P\ E>LOoH^. RE-P . A lp CTP^E-E-KI Cí3Uff?P,^. tsOPtE. i4AVfc îbeEiH PA.rnACrED,

- L\CT\4T(>46r FWrqRES' GTUOÍ >6:Í»

-SLIDE 14? • MAJDPA wpoucchlr iPvo\4

ujooo FÍAJDP^STOS^ "^

OPih4AHîEi|4rAL DíETAiL^ - AMO PAlMTEO. . , WP^OMCrV^T VP»OKÍ CLE>fe^li

WA-bTE D\5PO^AU L) l\T^ DO \4 PrSt-TAi l To THE. Cv4ARAcrBPi c> TMe^ EJvif^OhlHE^ÍT FLUOREScevÍT F\XTUP)E

JUDG e.''b &EkJcU

A^/oop i J úrooo COMDjT/OlJ

ADDiTlosl oF 5TTSUCTURI

D15TRICT COuhTpNOOM

VooDBiU veislBTUhJ

DFKûPPEO dElL^slcT

( Ê>ALCOfJT APNE^A TW\AT)

'TfMcT ATTOPsNltTS ÛFP-ICE ÍTRAlJc v' NI£TÍAM' ft i Ja

FlLE. t)TOP,A.ûrE

CAIJ R>e U^^X> foT ' JE.VEPIAL ôFFlCfci

COU , . , CLERK'b OFFlCÊ: í2rftou lP Fl

PLUORE'bCE.slT UGTMTISÍÚT DP\OPPE.D AûClûa'bTlCAL CElLlkldr " •iyE.D PAhÍE.VV| JDOUJ

CURPíEukÍT COUNÍTT P\feCOP>D > '

BOÍJD F\£C33D5 UTIU^E. 'bPACE THAT COULO f >E OFP16E 6PACE. Cû/vlVBPjT TO MlCPíO-FlLM ,P -r^4e FOURTH T^i^OFS l-a TO P-É:ACv4 fô^ •H4it, n»E:T»-^op,á5FP/^Er ÍTA^&WJL-l. Rsfc 1

D»B- TO I ClRcaUATlÔM COOP,»OOPv

-bi-lDE ZZ •• JMC5CIE;'5 OFPICt. 6\-lDei23; ;>T>ewl^t) UP

AVIE-W OF -bTA^P^CA^VCjvfSc DDÛLIJN^ I TO

LûNV ,cn^^p.Aact r-oP- ^£^^

V"I4E:J U6.Nl6r fTAlP-D. ^UDt^+- ^^^^^ ^^^^ OMUlhÍAU CLOOK op COUlJrY OOOPs MAROWARE - í>0UT|4wl#JCr COUfMROOrA. ÍODAT IT lt> Ij T-/Up F\P>5/ FUOOPy. CoUMrV CUEiRK'S '©FFICE. fôAK^-bOLiD DûOPi HODE^p^ í VE|4E:T|AJ foU^4ps Ab OppoSEP TD THE:W0£?'P O^\0^iví^U^, ^ rru^v^

LAHP P\XTUPV£^. T GTA'^ P;)^rufiE. /^TTIO ^PACE

^ATTIC U5E/D FOR MVAC ^y^TEptS

ANÍÍXLED AP»EA5 OPATT\C COULD &E UTiLiSED f^^ Ducrisl^ AHD FAJCJ.

•S>L\DE; Zíí»'• ATTIC U-b\=:S FoR WECUA/UIC^L )y^TeM' »

HVAC t>Y^TEp1S 1*4 OFPIC^^.

CUPÍPÍB\4T DUCT^ SMOULD FbE . I &.VAUUATED A<> TO T\-\E:\ R RETEí^Tiobi AldD Pieu^fe. ATTIC ^PAC£. ^\<"TLierl4T iul ToV.VEP>. ^bTAlvJLEf^S ^rE.EL Ablto

i>UDE ^b • SK^LlGrhir

ClP\CULAPv í>TA\RCA^e.- . UEP.T\CAL CiP^CULAT\Ot4 -^jpACEi. A»J EUE:ME:\4T THAT CAfJ ^B A <>Ufo<^A.l4T|AL Hi^TOP^lC ELfcM&JT IP i,}^^r. ^L\De: ZU' "^TAl t^CA-bE:

F/4i'b\4i^4cr WALL *bURFACÊ3 WILL FbE PEOuiPve-D.

WP\OUGÎÍ4T IPVD\4. - U-iE A PA-bTE o?) ^Etri/" PA-^TE: COHHBP^\AL PAitJr A lp i^ACÛ^U&Ps P»E^Í3VELR . foPuSiH Ah^D Klo. OOO Sl E:e:U U:)OOÉ»,, ConPuenTELT P^e^oyilJCf ,ALU, &--?U*bTlt4C:i CcATllN^Oci, WAE k^lATT&^. ArtípU^ A COAT OF tJTE.PviOP, ALKnp- fbAí>G=p 'rABzT^^-i^ PR/rterP^ TO 3UP^5=ACE: AJp ALLOW ro DRT. E)RUSH -APPL?- , Tux:> COATS <=>f AHC\D ECrCr í>hlEU-* lE:t-Upf û»P ftu^cy^ ro Fii4i*>* .

Fip^T

^yTEt45ior4 OF E:LEVATOP-^^^ H\DRA-UU6 El^v/i7o/s ii> <^PA&Lfe OF A ^^1 fMs^ ^ PEJTl4ous£ IS IJOT P)fe- ÍÍUIPÆ'P.

^VTEJSIOLI OF, C&J4TRA

H A T WILL ^^ eF^EûTfcP ^ l^ibTOft^CAL MA.R\

5L\Pt3 ^l4ôSV THE TUJO Grl^/4iTE p1Ars\

••?= Vf^'>-

H|-^ [1 I •iirfn','ntilHirf I''l' .;,'i|,^'v ti'i.f;'t'A..'i;!A'f',í.,-;; 3iJLw»---*f*. i.i"ii;"Mi.Ci;»iri;'ii'í3ff ::^.,>í •^\''rÃCic.\i'!SS^ &/W\:f:'m

•'v •••-•--'.' •.- ' .

e.'^-ií'-i' -/

ADJACNECY MATRIX: \VISE COU^JTY COURTHOUSE

/lOULT-JUVENiLE PROBATION BREAKnOOM

CHILD^PPORT

COMWSSONERS COURT COMMSaONERS OFFICE COUNTYAGENT

COUM Y AnORNEY C UW Y AUDITOR C UNTY CLÊRK COUNTYCOURT-

COUNTY JUDGE COUNTY TREASURER DISTRICT ATTORNEY DISTRICT CLERK DISTRICT COURTROOM JANITOR SUPPUES JUSTICE-OF- THE-PEACE LAWUBRARY

PARKING

RESTROOMS

SOCIAL SECURITY VETERANS ADMINISTRATION

ssmssm EEÊSSÍL &• ab&olute neces&ary 1. Interactive b. necessary 2. assoclation )• sometlmes necessary 3. unrelated o^ unneces&ary U- absolute unnecessary

IPAQE ÂLLQûAT^OMg

Adult-Juvenile Probation: 3rd. floor. No change in area and/or location.

Attic: 4th. floor. A Increase in 4500 sq. ft. can be made to the courthouse by incooperating this area into usuable floor area rather than storage area. The offices that can be relocated into this area should be evaluated as to their required accessiblility to the public and inter-office workings.

Breakroom: Basement. No change in area and/or location. Furnishings and environmental needs are to be evaluated.

Child-Support: 3rd. floor. No change in area and/or location.

Commissioners Court: 3rd. floor. No space requirements. The Court can be located into unused office space or an meeting area capable of handling twenty visitors. The County Court Room is capable of handling this amount.

Commissioners Office: 1st. floor. This office can be relocated into the additional office space provided in the attic. Current space would be used to house more public and/or county interconnected accessible offices. Area required: 400 sq. ft.

County Agent: Annex Building. The County Agent and one support staff member can be moved to the courthouse. This office could be housed into the attic area and or another space that is sufficent in area. Space Requirements: County Agent's office and area for one support staff. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for two persons, and file storage area. Area required: 400 sq. ft.

County Attorney: 3rd. floor. No change in area and/or location. Possible changes may have to be made to provide access to the attic. Solutions to the access to the attic may infringe upon this area.

County Auditor: Rogers Building. The County Auditor can be moved to the courthouse so long as sufficient space allocates. The removal of county records on the first floor may provide room. Also the movement of the Commissioners Office to the attic may

provide space. Its interaction with the County Treasurer and the County Clerk require close proximity. Space requirements: Auditor's office and one full-time staff members with two additional part-time members during heavy season. Conditions: Desks, waiting area 2-3 persons, and file storage area. Area required: 600 sq. ft.

County Clerk: 1st. floor east wing. No change in location. The area that the records require is substantial and with the conversion of the bond records onto microfilm would allow additional offices to be relocated onto the ground floor of the courthouse. A increase of 850 sq. ft. including a vault area would be advailible for additional office space.

County Court of Law: 3rd. floor. This space was created by the removal of the balcony space for the District Courtroom. The original location was the current County Clerk office. Additional uses are as the Commissioners Court room. The space is not in total keeping of the District Courtroom finishing. The ceiling and some of the finishings should be evaluated as to their retention.

County Judge: Ist. floor. No change in area and/or location.

County Treasurer: Rogers Building. The County Treasurer and two support staff can be moved to the courthouse so long as sufficient space allocates. A connection between the Treasurer and the Auditor is required and the two offices should be adjacent for speed of transactions. Space requirements: Treasurer's office and area for two-support staff. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for 2-3 persons, file storage, and vault. Area required: the south wing Ist. floor has in excess of 800 sq. ft.

District Attorney: 2nd. floor. No change in area and/or location.

District Clerk: 2nd. floor. No change in area and/or location.

District Courtroom: 2nd. floor. No change in area and/or location. Additional considerations for the courtroom are the Judge's Chambers, jury chambers, witness waiting area, prisoner holding, Court Reporter's office, District Clerk's office, relation to jail, and microfilm room and storage. janitor Supplies: Basement and 3rd. floor. No change in area and/or

location of existing areas. Additional area should be considered for the 4th. floor. Area required: 40 sq. ft. in relation to restrooms.

Justice-of-the-Peace: Annex Building. The judge and one secretary can be moved to the courthouse so long as sufficient space allocates. Space requirements: Judge's office and space for one support staff. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for 3-4 persons, file (record) storage, and reproduction equipment. Area required: 350 sq. ft.

Law Library: No change in area and/or location.

Parking: Some of the existing parking on the courthouse's side of the square could be removed to provide grounds for public activities. The rerouting of the thorough-fare witl relieve traffic congestion with local traffic being the sole consideration then. Employee parking can be located on property either behind the existing annexed structure or the north one-half block. By moving some of the parking to these sites a more satisfacturery landscaping project could be accomplished, enhancing the courthouse. A second consideration is that to return the courthouse to natural ventalation the landscaping that was removed must be replace and with additional area to work with proper landscaping will be energy efficient in the long-term costs of removing the parking.

Restrooms: No change in area and/or locations. Additional facilities should be located into the 4th. floor. Area required: 70 sq. ft.

Social Security: Annex Building. Two full-time staff members can be moved to the courthouse so long as sufficient space allocates. Space requirements: Area for two support staff. Conditions: Desks, waiting area for 2-3 persons, and file storage area. Area requirements: 450 sq. ft.

Veterans Administration: Annex Building: Officer for perspective servicemen and veterans benefits. Space requirements: Small office for conferences. Conditions: Desk, sitting area for 2-3 persons, and file storage. Area requirements: 350 sq. ft.



© 2022 Docslib.org