Location Okakarara, Namibia

Project Status Completed

Client Department Of Works, Ministry of Justice

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The Magistrates Court provides much needed judicial services for Okakarara and its surrounds with two-courtrooms, victim-friendly facilities, supporting temporary holding cells and offices for the Ministry of Justice. Initially designed as a renovation of an existing building with the addition of a court-room and cells, it became a completely new build during construction once it was discovered that the existing structure was structurally not sound, and the Ministry of Justice decided a second courtroom must be added. Within the scheme of the original U-shaped office building, the courtrooms and cells had to be-reconfigured in a tight site while balancing various security requirements with natural light and ventilation. The latter was obtained through the insertion of a line of courtyards between the offices and courtrooms, and the new entry hall and courtrooms. Several trees provide shade and visual relief, with clerestory windows in the courtrooms, protected from the direct sunlight by deep overhangs, ensuring privacy while allowing ample daylight.