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Shepparton Law Courts officially opened

Shepparton Law Court building design sets the standard for future regional court buildings, supporting the functions of a modern multi-jurisdictional facility that will contribute to improving access to justice.

Architectus joined the Attorney General and Court Services Victoria to celebrate the official launch of the Shepparton Law Courts on Friday 18 March.

Architectus Director and one of the leading architects behind the project,
Mark Wilde, said:

“The innovative design is a reflection of key trends in modern law court design, placing utmost importance on making the building a welcoming environment. The region’s ancient River Red Gum trees were the inspiration behind the light-filled and spacious lobby, with timbers, curved ceilings and perforated light providing a comforting illusion of being beneath a leafy tree. A sense of openness and transparency is also evident throughout the design with a delicate arrangement of clear triple glazed windows, translucent glass, sunscreens and variable blinds.”

Architectus | Shepparton Law Courts officially opened

The new five level building features six main courtrooms with the capacity to vary their use to meet caseload requirements, and also provides dedicated courtrooms for higher jurisdictions complete with a jury box, custody dock and space to accommodate up to three judges.

The design aspirations for the courthouse were to create an architecture that reflects the values of an open, transparent and accessible justice system. Public waiting spaces and courtrooms are generous in scale, calm in character, filled with abundant natural light that connect seamlessly with country.

Safety is a key feature of the building with entry screening equipment, Court Security Officers and separate areas for opposing parties. The building includes 23 multi-use interview rooms and break out spaces that are available for use by a range of clinical, legal and voluntary service providers.

The Shepparton Law Courts was designed in association with GHD Woodhead and Guymer Bailey Architects. Stage 2 works, which include demolition of the old 1980s building, development of a new landscaped forecourt and completion of the main building façade, and the refurbishment of the 1930s courthouse into a Specialist Family Violence Court, is scheduled for completion in late 2018.