Columbus Landmarks Foundation
recognizes the State Architect's Office
-- GSD State Architect's Office, June 2004

The restoration of the building now known as the Ohio Judicial Center recently captured the 2004 James B. Recchie Design Award given by the Columbus Landmarks Foundation.

Professionals from the State Architect's Office (SAO) were among many involved in the multi-faceted renovation of the art deco facility, which was completed in January. For several years, SAO oversaw the design and construction of the many exterior projects of the building, known then as the Ohio Departments Building, and its adjacent plaza, including the restoration of the marble façade, as well as interior work, including restoration of murals and artwork, replacement of windows and installation of a central air conditioning system.

SAO was lauded for its involvement in the exterior renovation of the historic building in downtown Columbus as was the associate architect for the project, Feinknopf Macioce Schappa Architects, and the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, the owner of the building during that time. Honored for their role in the conversion of the building into the Ohio Judicial Center were the Ohio Building Authority, serving as project administrator, as well as the architectural firm of Schooley Caldwell Associates and its subconsultant, Moody-Nolan, Inc. The Ohio Supreme Court, current owner of the building, also was recognized.

The building is located in downtown Columbus at 65 S. Front St.

"Constructed between 1931 and 1933, the building is considered a prime example of the Art Deco period," according to the Supreme Court's Web site. "Throughout, it features outstanding artwork by early 20th century American artists. Unlike many of today's buildings, the artwork is integrated both on the building's exterior and interior. Each room and space has its own theme, each of which relates to Ohio's rich history."

To learn more about the restoration project, visit http://www.sconet.state.oh.us/move/new_home.asp.

For information about visiting the Ohio Judicial Center, visit http://www.sconet.state.oh.us/move/.

The other award finalists were the renovations of the Main Street Gateway Buildings, located at 500 and 515 E. Main St., Columbus, and St. Patrick Church and Parish Hall, 280 N. Grant St., Columbus. The awards ceremony was held May 18 at the Ohio Judicial Center.

The Recchie Award is named for a Columbus attorney and founding trustee of the Columbus Landmarks Foundation, a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the architectural legacy of Columbus.