As the glass continues to go up on the New Federal Courthouse, we are getting a much better idea of how the glass will work with the sand-colored inner shell of the building. Still under construction, the elliptical shaped building occupies a full block of Delaware Avenue at Niagara Square, and is expected to be completed by the end of next year.
The glass, delayed for several months due to testing purposes, is slowly creeping its way to the top of the 10-story building.
The sun both absorbs and reflects into the glass creating a very intriguing and aesthetic appearance, but is less reflective than depicted in renderings.
From various angles, other downtown landmarks can be seen reflecting in the glass of the new build, along with varying weather conditions that affect the building’s visual impression.
The courthouse is one of several recent projects that have either received modern upgrades or new glass facades stretching from Niagara Square to Chippewa Sstreet. The lineup of investment include the courthouse, New Era headquarters, Avant and Hampton Inn. One can hope the new investment spreads to the east side of the street to bring a new owner and new life to the Statler.