Conrad B. Duberstein US Bankruptcy Courthouse

Updating a hundred-year-old building can be a challenge. Doing it in a way that is fiscally responsible while still delivering on compelling design is another story altogether. The Conrad B. Duberstein US Bankruptcy Courthouse had been in operation since 1892, and the time had come to modernize the building. The goal was to create a space that could support smart building technology while retaining the historic legacy architecture. In order to thoughtfully transform the space quickly, the team used DIRTT.

Using modular wall assemblies helped solve several challenges. First, off-site construction reduced the construction schedule. Manufactured off-site, the walls could be brought to site already assembled and quickly tipped into place. Then durable MDF panels could be added to complete the look. Those removable panels offer easy access to the wall cavity, offering operational savings on Day 2 and beyond. Whether maintenance is required, or technology needs to be upgraded, DIRTT makes those changes easy. These wall assemblies can also connect to the framework without damaging the base building. This offers an approach that unifies the design of the space while maintaining a healthy respect for history. That’s part of what made this building a 2022 GSA Design Award winner.