The Courtrooms 1 & 3 Internal Fit-Out Project involved the complete refurbishment of two existing courtrooms within an operational courthouse, with a third courtroom subsequently incorporated through a contract variation. The works were undertaken within a live judicial environment, requiring careful staging and coordination to ensure uninterrupted courthouse operations throughout the construction period.

The project scope included the soft strip-out of existing interiors, removal and reconfiguration of raised flooring systems, and modifications to the courtroom layouts to enhance functionality and presentation. New framed feature walls were constructed and clad with selected timber veneer panelling, finished with a clear protective coating to provide a high-quality architectural finish.

A prominent feature painted glass wall was installed behind the Judge’s bench, incorporating a new Coat of Arms emblem to create a modern and dignified focal point within each courtroom. Existing Rimu wall panelling was retained and enhanced through the installation of DBSORB acoustic wall panels, significantly improving both the acoustic performance and aesthetic quality of the spaces.

Additional refurbishment works included the installation of new carpet tile flooring, vinyl skirtings and toe kicks, and a complete replacement of existing lighting systems with modern, energy-efficient LED fittings. Lighting controls were designed and installed to meet the client’s requirements, including dimmable functionality to support courtroom operations.

A key challenge of the project was delivering the refurbishment works within a fully operational courthouse. The project was staged to allow court activities to continue in adjacent spaces, requiring meticulous planning, stakeholder engagement, and close coordination with courthouse management. Construction activities were carefully programmed around court schedules, with noisy works undertaken during available downtime to minimise disruption.

The construction programme included planned breaks between stages to allow specialist client contractors to install new audio-visual systems. All programmed milestones were achieved, and upon completion of the AV installation works, our team was instructed to undertake additional remedial works to ensure all courtrooms were fully operational and presented to the required standard.

Despite a number of drawing discrepancies, incomplete details, and unforeseen site conditions, the project team successfully managed these challenges through proactive communication, extensive RFI management, and collaborative problem-solving with the design team and client representatives. Minor design amendments were implemented where necessary, ensuring the successful delivery of three modernised courtrooms that met the client’s operational, acoustic, and aesthetic requirements.