Designed as a civic landmark for Augusta-Richmond County, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Administration Building serves as the command and administrative headquarters for Georgia’s largest full-service Sheriff’s Office.
Client
Augusta-Richmond County
Location
Augusta, Georgia
Total Project Cost
$7.4 M
Project Type
Law Enforcement
Completed
2012
Size
37,827 sq. ft.
Services
Architecture, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Plumbing Engineering
Photographer
JandDImages
The facility brings a wide range of law enforcement functions together under one roof, including Community Services, Criminal Investigations, Field Operations, Internal Affairs, Special Operations, Management Services and Public Records, as well as a state-of-the-art crime investigations garage and laboratory.
The building was carefully planned to balance the security and operational requirements of a modern law enforcement facility with the accessibility and civic presence expected of a prominent public building.
A two-story atrium establishes a welcoming point of entry while creating a clear transition between public-facing and secure functions. Visible from the surrounding street and sidewalk, the atrium reinforces a sense of openness and connection to the community while maintaining appropriate separation from controlled areas of the facility.
Architecturally, the exterior draws from materials and detailing found throughout Augusta’s historic downtown, allowing the building to complement its surroundings while establishing a distinct institutional identity.
The design integrates complex administrative, investigative, operational and specialized functions into a cohesive environment that supports efficient workflows for staff while providing an intuitive experience for citizens and visitors.
Sustainability was also a key consideration throughout design and construction, influencing decisions related to the site, materials and building systems. The completed facility became the first sheriff’s office in Georgia to achieve LEED certification, demonstrating how the performance, security and functional demands of a law enforcement facility can be successfully integrated with responsible, sustainable design.
