Charles R. Jonas
Occupying a prominent position within Charlotte's civic center, the Charles R. Jonas Federal Building and Courthouse continues to serve as a center of federal judicial activity within the city. Originally constructed as a post office in 1915 and expanded in 1932, the courthouse has been adapted to accommodate the requirements of contemporary federal court operations through a comprehensive renovation of the National Register of Historic Places-listed original building and the addition of a new eight-story annex.
Drawing upon the scale, proportions, and material character of the original courthouse, the addition extends the building along its western edge and reinforces the prominence of the historic building along West Trade Street. Using precast concrete panel color-matched to the limestone exterior of the existing structure, the addition establishes continuity with the historic courthouse. The annex extends the Classical style used by the original courthouse building, adapting its forms and proportions to accommodate contemporary judicial functions while giving the courthouse a presence on the Charlotte skyline for the first time.
The courthouse's ceremonial entrance, historic lobby, and gallery were preserved, enabling the original structure to remain the civic anchor of the complex. A new skylit double-height stair hall, which incorporates the former southwest facade of the historic building, forms the primary connection between the courthouse and the addition. The space establishes a visual and spatial dialogue between successive phases of construction and provides clear circulation throughout the expanded facility.
The expansion nearly doubles the courthouse's square footage. New courtrooms occupy the lower floors of the annex, while judges' chambers are located above. Chambers on the sixth floor open onto double-height loggias that reprise the portico of the original courthouse. The uppermost floor accommodates a Special Proceedings Courtroom and additional chambers, providing flexibility for the evolving needs of the federal judiciary.
The history of the site is further articulated through Site Woven, a series of seven mosaics by Brooklyn-based artists Ellen Driscoll that adorns the building at street level. Depicting significant moments in the history of the courthouse and city, the artwork acknowledges the site’s former role as the location of the original United States Mint, a post office, and, today, a federal courthouse.
