California Court of Appeal,
Fifth Appellate District

Products Help Establish Sustainability and a Sense of Beauty to the Courthouse

As a federal court, California Court of Appeal Fifth Appellate District (Fifth District Court of Appeal) covers nine counties throughout central California and is often used as a site for the surrounding community to rally. Located in a part of Fresno that is being rejuvenated by the city, the Fifth District Court of Appeal building not only contributes to the American way of life, but to the revitalization of a community, bringing both sustainability and a sense of beauty.

In addition to needing a functional, secure building, the overall appearance of the court was important to the state. California-based architecture firm, AC Martin Partners, Inc. was selected to develop the design of the court and was tasked with creating a building that would not only be efficient, but also would capture the vibrant, entrepreneurial spirit of the city.

With its curved walls, champagne-gold hue and glass façade, the Fifth District Court of Appeal has a tranquil appearance. Designed to reflect the “dignity and transparency of the judicial system,” the modern classic building combines traditional elements and modern materials. The courthouse includes a formal processional entry, a “jewel-box” courtroom and a horseshoe-shaped inner courtyard.

The state was interested in integrating features into the building that could contribute to energy efficiency as well as to the health and well being of the occupants.

Features like the thermal break in Trifab® VG (VersaGlaze®) 451T Storefront help reduce energy usage and increase thermal efficiency. Additionally, 1600 Wall System®1 curtain wall outfitted with custom covers was used to create the glass façade of the building’s exterior. Both the glass façade of the building’s exterior, as well as the inner courtyard, provide occupants with increased natural daylight. Kawneer’s 350 Medium Stile Entrances were selected for the lasting quality and durability they provide. Tough yet attractive, 350 Medium Stile Entrances are designed to complement modern or traditional architecture – perfect to meet the design requirements of the Fifth District Court of Appeal.