“This award validates a design approach that places the human experience at the very center. Our design for the new Omaha Police Department precinct attends to the physical safety of officers while maintaining a welcoming civic expression to the community," said Chris Johnson, AIA, Managing Principal of the Omaha studio. "This duality guided every element of the design, from its expressive shape and warm materials to the many layers of security that help keep officers safe. We’re proud to be recognized."
The Omaha Police Department’s philosophy of community policing drove the design of its new West Precinct, a facility that invites civic engagement while remaining secure and functional. The building is divided into two functional zones — an extroverted public face and a more introverted secure zone — differentiated through material choices and forms. Ribbons of wood sweep from exterior to interior, guiding members of the public to a service desk, community meeting room, and workstations. An outdoor pocket-park doubles as a security feature, integrating protective barriers, benches, site walls, and shade trees.
“This project has a very strong civic identity," said members of AIA Nebraska's jury. "The subdued palette of glass, brick, metal, and wood are nicely detailed and work together to create both a sense of hospitality and of security.”
