The International Criminal Court, The Hague, The Netherlands
Designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects
A Democratic Institution
The design of the International Criminal Court in The Hague communicates trust, hope and–most importantly–faith in justice and fairness. It is important that a formal institution like the ICC does not constitute barriers for people, but instead expresses the very essence of democratic architecture.
ICC is the permanent premises of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, The Netherlands.
The building is designed as a sculptural abstraction, – a composition of six volumes, firmly anchored to the site and rising from the surrounding dune landscape.
By designing a compact building with a small footprint, the landscape is returned to the city so that the open spaces, sky, and horizon become an integrated part of the architectural composition.
The entrance is enriched with a wooden sculpture by Danish artist Eske Rex. The piece blends with the lightness and simplicity of the architectural design, creating a distinctive Danish imprint.
Inside, wide courtrooms fulfill ICC's mandate in the fight against impunity for perpetrators of the most heinous crimes. The building also has rooms for journalists and relatives following cases on-site, underscoring the trust and the transparency this court building requires.
With flowers and plants representing more than 120 member countries, the parterre garden is a symbol of unity across nationalities and cultures.
The building is a courageous ambassador for the credibility and values of the ICC.
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