Cherokee County Justice Center Master Plan

POH+W Architects Master Plan for a 135,000-SF Courthouse Expansion for Cherokee County. A fundamental constraint for this master plan design was the entire Judicial expansion, security entrance and required parking had to fit within the county’s existing land footprint with no additional site acquisition. Furthermore, there was a preponderant phasing component that factored comprehensively within the design options. POH+W Architects met regularly with all County stakeholders representing each impacted branch of county government. Notwithstanding the very challenging site configuration, POH+W Architects was able to meet or exceed the master plan goals established by the County Administration, Judicial Leadership and Sheriff Department for this very challenging site.

POH+W Architects designed the new 135,000-SF Cherokee County Justice Center Expansion, accommodating a new Security Pavilion, a 400 seat Jury Assembly, twelve new courtrooms with Judge’s Chambers and Jury Deliberation along with office space for court recorders. The lower area accommodates work and meeting space for the sheriff’s courthouse staff along with inmate holding. 

Concept Design Models: 

The new expansion connects to the existing Justice Center via two pedestrian bridges (public and judicial staff). The existing Justice Center will be renovated to accommodate space needs for the District Attorney, the Clerk of Courts and others. The Cherokee County Justice Center Annex will be designed using sustainability practices.