CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.—A modern federal courthouse is taking shape in downtown Chattanooga, and the newly released design concept signals a transformative civic investment for the region. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has unveiled renderings for the long‑planned facility on Vine Street, describing it as a secure, efficient and enduring landmark that will consolidate federal judicial functions under one roof while elevating the city’s architectural landscape.
A New Civic Anchor for Chattanooga
At approximately 191,000 square feet, the courthouse will bring together the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the Circuit Library and key federal partners including the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The design includes seven courtrooms, nine judges’ chambers and 40 secure interior parking spaces, all arranged to maximize operational efficiency and safety.
Chief Judge Travis R. McDonough called the project “Chattanooga’s premier civic space,” emphasizing its long‑term significance. “As our city’s most consequential building in generations, this courthouse will stand for the next century as a sanctuary for those who seek justice, a forum to gather together and a classroom to educate our student citizens,” he said.
HOK’s Vision: Classical Form, Modern Function
The project is led by global design firm HOK, serving as Designer of Record. Known for major civic and institutional projects worldwide, HOK brings a portfolio that includes federal courthouses, airports, sports venues and cultural institutions. The firm’s approach often blends contemporary performance standards with architectural gravitas—an ethos clearly reflected in the Chattanooga design.
“Our vision for the Chattanooga courthouse is to create a civic landmark that embodies transparency, dignity and resilience,” said Paul Woolford, HOK design principal and lead designer on the project. He emphasized the balance between openness and the rigorous security requirements inherent to federal judicial buildings. The design also responds to Chattanooga’s character, aiming to create a welcoming environment for the public while maintaining the solemnity expected of a courthouse.
The renderings reveal a structure rooted in classical proportions—strong vertical lines, a symmetrical façade and a prominent entry sequence—paired with modern materials and energy‑efficient systems. This hybrid approach aligns with GSA’s Design Excellence Program, which encourages architecture that is both forward‑looking and reflective of civic tradition.
A Collaborative Project Team
The courthouse is being delivered through a Construction Manager as Constructor (CMc) model.
- Brasfield & Gorrie serves as the CMc, responsible for overseeing construction.
- fs3|Hodges acts as Construction Manager as Advisor (CMa).
- HOK leads the design team.
This structure is intended to streamline coordination, improve cost control and accelerate the construction timeline—an increasingly common approach for large federal projects.
Art, Architecture and Public Engagement
In keeping with federal tradition, GSA has also opened a solicitation for a public art commission associated with the courthouse. The call for artists closes June 15, 2026, and the selected work will become a permanent part of the building’s civic identity. Public art in federal courthouses often reflects regional history, cultural values or themes of justice, making this an opportunity for a significant local contribution.
Additional project milestones—including groundbreaking and construction timelines—will be posted on GSA’s Chattanooga U.S. Courthouse project page as the development progresses.
A Landmark for the Next Century
When completed, the new courthouse is expected to reshape the federal presence in Chattanooga, replacing aging facilities with a secure, efficient and architecturally distinguished home for the judiciary. It represents not only an investment in infrastructure but also a statement about the role of civic architecture in American cities: buildings that embody democratic values, serve the public and endure for generations.
