Ipswich Courthouse, Police Station and Watch House

The new Ipswich Courthouse is a multi-use facility located on a constrained inner-city site. Designed by Architectus Conrad Gargett in association with Cox Architecture, the complex encompasses a five-level building housing a Magistrates Court and a 24-hour Police Station and Watch House.

Resolving the critical challenge of merging two distinct yet interconnected operations – the Court and the Police Station required meticulous planning to facilitate legal proceedings, maintain security, and ensure the Police Station’s independence for its 24/7 operations. The facility integrates a total of twelve courtrooms—five district courts and eight Magistrates’ courts—chamber facilities, a secure four-tier circulation system, and extensive support infrastructure.

To counteract the constraints of the urban site, the building incorporates innovative design strategies, including extensive use of high-performance glazing, light wells, and skylights to maximise natural light penetration and views outside. The interior is characterised by warm timber panelling, manufactured off-site to ensure quality and efficiency. The building’s exterior is a striking composition of materials, including off-form concrete, precast concrete, steel, glass, zinc, limestone, and timber. These elements were carefully integrated to create a visually compelling and durable façade and achieved a 4-star Green Star.

This project represents a masterful resolution of a set of complex and specific needs. It successfully supports the operational requirements of both judicial and law enforcement functions while enhancing the urban fabric with its distinctive architectural presence and commitment to sustainability.