Douglas County Courthouse
Lawrence, KS (2010, Current Project)
1100 Massachusetts Street
The Douglas County Courthouse is a three-and-a-half-story building with a limestone exterior in downtown Lawrence. Constructed in 1903, the 15,000 square-foot building exemplifies the 20th century Romanesque style. The dominant feature is the six-story-tall square clock tower. Hernly Associates is an integral part of the design team preserving this historic building.
This project includes documentation of existing conditions, along with the rehabilitation of the exterior stone masonry. Stained glass windows were restored; the main entrance stairs were restored and handrail replaced. Stairs were reconfigured to create accessibility for everyone. The attic was made accessible. Other work includes gutter and downspout rehabilitation, installation of a new irrigation system, roof repairs, and concrete sidewalk replacement.
The Douglas County Courthouse has remained an integral part of downtown Lawrence and Douglas County history; it continues to serve its original purpose as the first and only courthouse for Douglas County. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 for its architectural and political significance.
