Courtroom Renovation, Jefferson County, Iowa

Courtroom Renovation Photos, Jan 25, 2010

The courtroom originally had a very high ceiling, which meant that the third floor of the courthouse could not use this space. A dropped ceiling installed many years ago blocked the view of the stained-glass windows (and did not look good). The renovation included restoration of the original ceiling, except over the new courtroom lobby created on the east side of the courtroom. Above the new lobby a new Assessor's Office was built, expanding the third floor square-footage of the courthouse. Photos by Josie Hannes Design

West wall after the false ceiling was removed, Jan 25, 2010.

North wall. The temporary stairs allow materials to enter through the window opening.

Longer view.

South wall.

A view of the main entrance of the new courtroom lobby (from within the lobby - south wall).
The third floor section will be built just above the doors.

East wall of the courtroom lobby. These stairs begin the "back" stairway system to the third floor.

Original stencilling found behind paneling.

Stairway post.

More stencilling.

The original doors will be saved and refinished.

Door knob.

Blueprints for the renovation/remodeling.

Richard Reed, County Supervisor, studies the floor plan.

Floor plan. North is to the left.

More plans.

Courtroom.

Old heating device found in the wall.

New electrical service was brought up into the attic from the outside conduit, then wiring was dropped into the renovated areas.

The attic. Note the original combination of a wood and metal framework.

The roof was re-shingled a few years ago, so it no longer leaks.