The American Institute of Architects’ D.C. chapter has selected the SOM-designed Fort Lauderdale Federal Courthouse as one of two winners of the 2022 Unbuilt Washington Award. The award program recognizes excellence in theoretical and commissioned projects from designers based in the Washington, D.C. region.

Meeting the needs of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, SOM’s design for the courthouse embodies the ideals of dignity, transparency, and clarity. The symmetrical tower rises above a single-story podium, establishing an approachable human scale and connecting with new green spaces, including a riverfront trail. In addition to serving the U.S. District Court, it will house workspaces for various federal judicial agencies when completed in 2026.