Gruzen Samton designed the modernization of the Emanuel Celler US Courthouse, which involved replacing the facility`s primary infrastructure with a restoration and retrofit of the facility's courtrooms and chambers. Originally completed in 1961, this 300,000-sf building is part of the Brooklyn US Court Civic Center. The modernization of the nine-story courthouse significantly enhances its superstructure, exterior envelope, and MEPFPVDTelecomm systems, as well as its 11 courtrooms. The scope of work included conference rooms, administrative offices, internal circulation, and the court system`s associated tenants. Current court standards were met for security, technology, accessibility, and way-finding. Our efforts resulted in increased efficiency and improved organization of the program. Our primary goal was to retain significant features of this civic structure, such as the vintage courtrooms, chambers, and public corridors, while integrating infrastructure upgrades to meet modern standards.
