The Band hired BKV Group to assist with refining and finalizing the project to help meet operational and budget goals. The project includes two courtrooms, a main jury courtroom, a family/hearing courtroom, and all supporting court services spaces. BKV Group developed a design that expressed the Band’s tribal culture and beliefs while including the standard best practices for security and judicial process. BKV Group and the Band developed the project in conjunction with Cass County.

The plan consists of a single-story building with clear circulation and separation between public, staff, and detainees. The design team incorporated engineering systems that allow for convenient future expansion. The exterior aesthetic uses classic and durable materials and follows the Band’s direction to create a sense of modernity throughout their government spaces. As the design evolved, the team worked with the Band to incorporate traditional Ojibwe features to reinforce the sense of community and reflect cultural priorities.