Zwolle Court of Justice
The existing courthouse in Zwolle, designed by architect Kruger, dates back to 1964. The need for extension was already felt in the mid-eighties. A new start was made at the end of 2004, following many years of deliberation. The design incorporates new build as well as renovation of the old building. Old and new will stand side by side and will link up at ground floor level. As opposed to the closed off and inward oriented nature of the Kruger building, the new build will be transparent and accessible, the areas that are open to the public oriented to the surrounding area. The shape of the building is defined by the urban development lines and boundaries, elevations and even the locations of the trees. This creates town planning coherence and new sightlines.
The new build plan consists of four programmed tiers. First of all there is the underground, two-storey car park, which is connected to the old underground car park as well as the ground floor. Here are the entrance areas and technical support functions, such as storage, archives, cells, interview rooms and technical facilities rooms. This is where the entrance area of the old building will be connected to the new public entrance. The third tier is a double-height tier with a circular area (public waiting area), courtrooms, chambers and a library. Finally, the top tier comprises three floors with office functions. Linking up with the particular function, each floor has a specific construction, installation and use of material.
