South Placer County Santucci Justice Center Master Plan and Courthouse

The soaring entry lobby is bathed in natural light through Kalwall panels above.

A monumental canopy arc denotes the entry in silver aluminum, bracketed by polished black stone elements. Cast concrete site furnishings provide seating amenities as well as unobtrusive site security.

The construction system was a hybrid of site-cast concrete and steel frame with storefront, a very economical combination. The North (entry) elevation is markedly transparent with full-height glazing.

Each courtroom is equipped with fully automated video, audio and static presentation and recording technologies.

The populations of Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville and Loomis have increased significantly in recent years, so Placer County is launching a new government service center in South Placer distinct from the county seat in Auburn. We prepared a master plan for the 72-acre site and provided full design services for the centerpiece, a new home for the Superior Courts.

The courthouse comprises nine full service courtrooms plus a full range of public and administrative support features, including childcare center, family services, mentoring and research facilities. The stacked courtroom arrangement allows very efficient secure custody and transfer facilities from the basement level. It also allows unique 2-story collegial judges chambers, with a large common library overlooking a restored vernal wetland. The use of energy efficient systems, recycled/recyclable and rapidly renewable materials make this a very green building. Close consultation with both Superior Court staff and the State’s Administrator of the Courts helped make this an optimum, technically advanced facility – the cutting edge of 21st century justice centers.