Imperial County Criminal Courthouse

The design of this four-court Criminal Courthouse in the Imperial Valley Desert was influenced by the extreme climate of its location. The building is oriented around two courtyards, offering visitors and employees access to outdoor shaded spaces that are insulated from the harsh desert climate without having to leave the secured premises. These courtyards also provide an abundance of natural light to permeate throughout the building and into each courtroom without compromising security. All windows are protected from direct sunlight or oriented to face north, maximizing natural light and minimizing solar heat gain. In addition to four courtrooms, the courthouse provides administrative office space, in-custody holding, and a jury assembly room.