The new Colusa PD is conceived of as a series of simple, yet precise overlapping zones that are indicative of different requirements; public / private, work / training, administrative / officer, evidence / interview, etc. These zones manifest as a series of soft, overlapping loops nested with a more rigid security boundary. Importantly, these zoning loops extend into the landscape, creating public landscapes and elements that are integrated with internal order. This strategy fosters a holistic approach to the site and facility design while offering spaces for public engagement alongside spaces for facility needs.
While the spatial organizations of the site and facility come into alignment through overlapping loops, the architectural massing of the building responds to the need for civic identity and security. To address these needs, the facility balances the appearances of heavy and lightweight; austere yet vibrant, grounded yet fluid. In the simplest diagram the building is a long, structurally efficient bar building. Therefore, the bottom is heavy and grounded, expressed as a continuous perimeter block wall. Atop this wall, a metal scrim appears to lightly rest, softly slipping over the top of it and articulated with soft elevational curves that articulate a roof scupper, building entrance, and creates a more human scale on the public facade with a long subtle bow curve along the bottom edge.
Endemic Architecture, in collaboration with the Colusa PD, Chief, Colusa Mayor, and Colusa City Manager completed the master planning, programming, and schematic design phases. The project is currently in a phase of capital campaign throughout 2026.
Project Team
Architect: Endemic Architecture
Structural Engineer: Hewitt Consulting Group
Civil Engineer: California Engineering Company
Geotech & MEP Engineers: NV5
Status: Capital Campaign