2025-756-E-AMS-O'Brien Atkins Associates, PA-Design Contract

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6 DESIGN INNOVATION 34 | DESIGNING TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY A modern Sheriff’s Office headquarters is more than a center for law enforcement: it is a physical embodiment of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office’s mission and vision. It stands as a civic institution that welcomes, engages, and safeguards the community it serves. Through thoughtful and intentional design, such a facility becomes a landmark of public trust and a symbol of the Office’s commitment to respect, fairness, and community responsiveness. Architecture plays a crucial role in reinforcing these values. Within a Sheriff’s Office headquarters, there are two primary opportunities to reflect this mission in the built environment. The first is the space dedicated to public interaction, where members of the community experience the respect and courtesy that define the Sheriff’s Office’s approach. These areas are often anchored by an open, welcoming lobby, designed with calming materials, intuitive wayfinding, and a layout that fosters transparency and trust. These elements ensure that every visitor, regardless of background, feels secure, acknowledged, and valued. The second is the operational heart of the building: secure and protected spaces that support the daily activities of the Sheriff’s Office staff. These areas must reflect the best practices of modern workplace design, incorporating ergonomic solutions, access to natural daylight, and technology- integrated environments that promote wellness, efficiency, and collaboration. A well-designed headquarters empowers staff to serve the community effectively while fostering morale and professional pride. Local context strengthens the building’s identity and connection to place. Regionally sourced materials, such as native stone, local brick, highlight local craftsmanship, while architectural forms inspired by the area’s history and culture reinforce civic character. These design choices turn the facility into a symbol of shared values and public service. For the Evidence Storage Facility, design considerations are just as critical. While material choices may be more limited, there are opportunities to contextualize the facility within the larger scope of Orange County’s public safety operations. Even though the public will not interact with this facility, it still plays a role in the community’s perception of law enforcement. Careful consideration of the design, from its massing to its material selection, will ensure the facility represents the integrity of the County’s law processes. The building also needs to support staff well-being by ensuring the staff is not facing unnecessary strain due to inefficient working conditions. We will determine the best possibilities for adjacencies to allow for the best workflow for + Docusign Envelope ID: ED9774D9-AC0C-4CB2-997F-EA672B7B6C5D