Courthouses that symbolize the integrity, respect and dignity of the law. Libraries that contribute to the vitality of communities. Arts and convention centers that foster meaningful connections. At their best, civic and cultural spaces embody the values, creativity and aspirations of a community.

Our approach to design for the public realm centers on the responsible stewardship of resources—both fiscal and environmental—to create striking buildings that express a shared vision for an optimistic future.

Design Perspectives for Cultural and Civic

Because cultural and civic buildings are often financed via public funds, on-time and on-budget delivery and substantial savings in energy and operating costs are important factors. In recent years, NBBJ has led the design of four design-build courthouses that adhere to these standards. The US Federal Courthouse in Bakersfield, California—one of the fastest constructed in history —employs a simple yet flexible design, allowing it to be delivered in two and a half years at $2.5 million under budget.

In addition to our expertise and long-standing experience in designing civic and cultural buildings, we are also proud to partner with like-minded firms to deliver progressive designs that celebrate legacy and preservation. Our recent joint venture with Leo A. Daly was awarded the National Architecture/Engineering/Interiors Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Contract for the US General Services Administration. To learn more, contact us.

Located within an urban core, the San Joaquin County, Stockton Courthouse acts as a catalyst for the area's renewal, providing a safe, efficient, high-performance space for visitors and staff.

Work and Ideas

All Work and Ideas

Sacramento County, Tani Cantil-Sakauye Sacramento County Courthouse

United States Federal Courthouse, Bakersfield

Article

Getting to Zero: Rethinking Carbon in the Built Environment

Shasta County, New Redding Courthouse

Columbus Metropolitan Library: Northside Branch

Statue of Liberty Museum

Article

The Community as Co-Creator: Why Community Engagement is Crucial to an Inclusive Design Process

Seattle Opera at the Center

Seattle City Light Denny Substation

Article

Formerly Hidden, Beautiful Infrastructure Is Now Back in the Limelight

United States Federal Courthouse, Seattle

Exterior photography of the architectural design of the Eco-Tech located in the Nanjing, China. Photography commissioned by NBBJ Architects. Paul Dingman Photographer

Nanjing Eco Hi-Tech Island, Xin Wei Yi Technology Park

[#Beginning of Shooting Data Section]
Nikon D200
2009/06/25 20:45:08.7
RAW (12-bit)
Image Size: Large (3872 x 2592)
Color
Lens: 12-24 mm F/4 G
Focal Length: 14 mm
Exposure Mode: Manual
Metering Mode: Multi-Pattern
13 s - F/13
Exposure Comp.: 0 EV
Sensitivity: ISO 100
Optimize Image: Normal
White Balance: Auto
Focus Mode: Manual
VR Control:
Long Exposure NR: ON
High ISO NR: Off
Color Mode: Mode I (Adobe RGB)
Tone Comp.: Auto
Hue Adjustment: 0¡
Saturation: Auto
Sharpening: Auto
Image Authentication: OFF
Image Comment:
[#End of Shooting Data Section]

Greater Boston Food Bank, Yawkey Distribution Center

Qingdao International Exhibition Center

Article

Nature as the City: Why It’s Time for a New Framework to Guide Development

Cultural and Civic Leaders

Matthew Somerton, AIA, LEED AP

Partner | Cultural and Civic Practice Leader

Jonathan Bahe, AIA

Principal I Corporate Market Leader

Kim Selby, AICP CUD

Urban Environments Market Leader

Featured Project

Seattle City Light Denny Substation

Designed to reflect Seattle City Light’s vision to be the greenest utility in America, Denny Substation elevates the standards of environmental sustainability and provides a vital new public space for the neighborhood.

View project