The CGL AOR Justice team (now NELSON Worldwide) led the planning and design efforts for the Elkhart County Courthouse since the design/bid effort began in 2021. The new courthouse will consolidate the County’s Courts, currently operating in two older courthouses, under one roof, including criminal, civil and family court calendars.
The courthouse will include 14 courtrooms and judicial chambers, County Clerk Office, Probation Office, and the Public Defender’s Office. The courthouse design prioritizes access to justice and customer service in a safe environment that integrates technology in a modern court operation. Trauma-informed design principles will result in abundant natural light, the use of soft colors in interiors, clear wayfinding, and other elements that will reduce anxiety and create a welcoming feeling.
Courtrooms are planned for flexible use and long-term adaptability, including virtual court capabilities. The Family Court is innovatively designed for a problem-solving approach to justice with an understanding of the complex issues that families, children, and victims may be dealing with when interacting with the justice system.
