BFW/Marcum: Leading the Way in Judicial Facility Design

We’ve spent decades designing the spaces where justice takes shape. Courtrooms, judicial centers, and courthouses that serve real people in real communities. From bustling urban courthouses to quiet county judicial centers, our work spans decades and dozens of communities, shaping the very spaces where justice is served across Kentucky. With more than 70 judicial projects completed throughout the state, we’ve earned a reputation as trusted experts in courthouse and judicial center design.

From County to Commonwealth: A Statewide Impact

BFW/Marcum has completed judicial centers and courthouses in nearly every corner of Kentucky. From Allen County in the west to Whitley County in the east, our work reaches both small rural communities and larger population centers across the state.

Some of our most notable projects can be found in Jefferson, Hopkins, Whitley, Livingston, Barren, Laurel, and Hardin counties. These represent just a small portion of our broad and ongoing presence across the Commonwealth.

Our broad experience isn’t just about numbers. It reflects a deep understanding of what makes judicial facilities truly effective. We’ve learned what works through experience. We’ve restored beloved historic courthouses and built new centers from the ground up, always with an eye on security, sustainability, and community impact.

Spotlight on Signature Projects

Our commitment to excellence can be seen in standout projects like:

  • Hopkins County Judicial Center (Madisonville, KY): A 57,700-square-foot facility featuring four courtrooms, integrated security systems, and carefully planned circulation paths to separate public, staff, and inmate traffic. This project exemplifies functionality paired with public accessibility.
  • Whitley County Judicial Center (Williamsburg, KY): A $12.7 million, 47,000-square-foot building with advanced security features, high-durability materials, and four state-of-the-art courtrooms designed for longevity and adaptability.
  • Livingston County Judicial Center (Smithland, KY): Adjacent to one of Kentucky’s oldest courthouses, this $8.9 million, 28,950-square-foot project honors history while embracing the future. It houses courtrooms, a law library, and administrative offices in a seamless, modern design.

Why Communities Choose BFW/Marcum

Designing judicial facilities requires a nuanced understanding of both architecture and public service. We specialize in solving the challenges unique to these spaces:

  • Security First: Our buildings include secure prisoner transfer routes, restricted staff areas, and comprehensive surveillance systems to protect all occupants.
  • Functional Circulation: We ensure efficient movement patterns that minimize bottlenecks and maintain safety for the public, staff, and judiciary.
  • Technology Integration: From video arraignment systems to digital evidence display capabilities, our courtrooms are ready for today and tomorrow.

Community-Centered, Forward-Facing

No two communities are alike, and the same goes for their judicial centers. Some projects preserve historic courthouses; others create bold, new civic landmarks. But in every case, we aim to elevate both form and function.

Sustainability is another key focus. Our designs incorporate high-efficiency HVAC systems, advanced insulation, and energy-saving lighting to reduce long-term operating costs and environmental impact (source).

Expertise You Can Count On

“We approach every courthouse and judicial center with the same care and precision we would apply to our own city halls,” says Mike McGregor, Project Manager at BFW/Marcum. “These buildings serve the public for generations, and we take that responsibility seriously.”

With a plethora of judicial projects under our belt, and a map full of counties that trust our work, BFW/Marcum has proven its ability to lead in this vital sector. Whether designing a modern courthouse or breathing new life into a historic one, we’re helping shape the future of justice infrastructure in Kentucky.

Ready for What’s Next

As the needs of Kentucky’s judicial system evolve, so does our approach. We’re continuing to pioneer smart, sustainable, and secure designs that uphold justice and reflect the communities they serve.

Judicial work is one of our deepest commitments, backed by decades of hands-on experience and a passion for building lasting public institutions.

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