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Four design concepts unveiled for Pinellas County campus; commissioners ask for classical elements and cost comparisons
Summary
Architects presented four courthouse/campus exterior concepts including colonnade and contemporary options. Commissioners requested cost comparisons, energy-efficiency details, security treatments and exploration of neoclassical elements; designers will refine materials, landscaping and pricing.
Designers presented four exterior concepts for the proposed Pinellas County government and justice campus and received detailed feedback from commissioners about style, cost and security.
The HOK-led team showed four main concepts: a traditional projected colonnade, a recessed colonnade, a "picture-frame" treatment and an expressive metal-screen option. Each uses a similar materials palette and the same approved massing; all concepts include a four-story circulation/atrium connector, secure parking and a courtyard.
"We're starting to look at sun shading and making sure we have a prominent facade facing Ulmerton," Jonathan Rea of the design team said. The team emphasized circulation from the planned five-story parking garage into a protected central plaza.
Commissioners pressed the designers on several points: Commissioner Scheer asked whether classical or neoclassical treatments could be incorporated — columns, gables or cornices — without excessive cost. Designers said a truly classical approach involves proportional changes to massing and would require further study but that surface-level classical details (columns or cornices in precast concrete) could be explored. Commissioner Peters and others said they preferred a columned colonnade that reads as more traditional for a judicial building.
Security concerns were raised about judge and judicial parking near the public entrance. Designers said the sheriff's office is part of the review team and that screening/landscape berms and controlled entrances are being studied. Staff also said the design team will evaluate sun shading, glazing and other energy-efficiency measures; commissioners asked for lifecycle and maintenance cost estimates.
Outcome: No selection was made. Designers will refine the preferred concepts, produce comparative cost estimates, provide landscaping and security options, and return with pricing and material alternatives for additional review.
Why it matters: The new campus will replace aging facilities and govern where judicial and administrative county functions will be housed for decades. Commissioners sought a balance between durability, cost, civic gravitas and energy performance.
What's next: Staff will ask the design team to return with cost comparisons, deeper exploration of classical detailing and landscape and security plans for review at a future meeting.
