The $105.7 million expansion and renovation to the center is one of the largest projects in the county’s history. The 316,000-square-foot (29,356-m2) addition doubled the size of the existing building and consolidates the county’s justice system under one roof, in addition to combining operations from the neighboring, historic Fairfax County Courthouse. Construction on the project began in July 2004.
Wausau Window and Wall Systems Inc. engineered a high-performance blast-resistant curtainwall system that adheres to heightened security mandates and preserves the aesthetic integrity of the historical district.
“Coordination between manufacturer, glazing contractors and consultants and designers was crucial to ensure proper anchorage and installation,” explained Kevin Robbins, Wausau’s regional sales manager. “We rely on a collaborative approach—especially with projects like these—to make it possible to complete construction, while maintaining the day-to-day operations of the facility.”
Fabricated in its quality-controlled manufacturing facility, Wausau fabricated a SuperWall system that includes framing depths exceeding 10 inches (254 mm). “Fairfax County Courthouse’s system was comprised mostly of punched windows, surrounded by the building’s façade on all four sides,” Robbins said. With sensitivity to the blast-mitigation features, Wausau used computer modeling to cost-effectively verify performance of the windows, while minimizing the opportunity for delay or mishap during fabrication and installation.
The new façade preserves the historical feel of the 204-year-old Fairfax County Courthouse by matching the brick façade of the 25-year-old Jennings Building. Linetec finished Wausau’s aluminum framing system in a custom color, two-coat, 70 percent Kynar 500 resin based coating.
The courthouse’s design is respectfully scaled to its surroundings. The building’s elevation along the street includes a three-story addition proportioned to the neighboring low-lying buildings, and an additional two levels set back on the site to meet with the five-story Jennings building. A serpentine wall prevents open access to the front lawn, while an exterior courtyard between the existing building and the addition allows the public to have outdoor access.
The new 546,000-square-foot (50,723-m2) facility was opened and occupied in summer 2009, and encompasses 14 new courtrooms, bringing the total up to 37 with the potential to expand to 42. It will also house the Circuit, General District and Juvenille and Domestic Relations District Court, allowing judges to share resources and discussions. Additionally, it includes a parking garage for 1,900 vehicles, constructed away from the facility for added security.
Owner: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
Architect/engineer: HDR Architecture Inc., Omaha, Neb.
General contractor: dck north america LLC, Pittsburgh
Glazing contractor: Trainor Glass, South Kearny, N.J.
Curtainwall: Wausau Window and Wall Systems Inc., Wausau, Wis., www.wausauwindow.com
Finisher: Linetec, Wausau, www.linetec.com
