Developed through Justice Prototype Design: Detention Pod and Control

As Sheriff of Fulton County, Indiana, I was tasked with addressing the same issues that many sheriffs across the country face with aging and inefficient jail facilities. Ours was burdened with a range of infrastructural problems, including plumbing, sewer lines, electrical systems, HVAC complications, inadequate storage space, and overcrowding.

The facility was originally designed over 40 years ago. After careful evaluation, pursuing a new, modern correctional facility became the most practical solution to overcome the ongoing setbacks of operating within an outdated environment.

Cutting-Edge Housing Design

The main detention area is where you’ll find the housing pod for the justice facility. It follows a “pie-shaped” layout, with cell blocks extending outward from a central control space. This arrangement not only improves visibility and movement but can also incorporate classroom space within the pod. These spaces are ideal for offering programs such as GED courses or other rehabilitative education.

The housing area includes a thoughtful mix of two-man cells, four-man cells, and dormitory-style spaces. Classification is based on location and risk level, allowing staff to maintain a safer and more controlled environment for all individuals, whether they live or work in the facility.

An abundance of natural light flows through the housing areas, promoting a healthier atmosphere for detainees. The open design supports thorough sightlines across the pod. This is a critical factor in staff safety and operational awareness.

Read: Enhancing Staff Efficiency Through Thoughtful Justice Architecture

Central Control

Central control is the main focal point of the detention center. Its strategic placement at the center of the facility ensures maximum visibility into each housing block and dayroom. From this location, staff can monitor activity through both direct line of sight and security cameras covering the blocks and cell areas.

All systems—including doors, lighting, intercoms, and water management—are operated from this hub. With close proximity to the booking area, an elevated observation point is also located within central control, offering broader oversight where it’s most critical.

The geometry of the space is intentionally balanced. It is compact enough that officers do not need to leave their post to maintain full visual coverage of the housing units. This thoughtful layout leads to greater efficiency within the prototype design, reducing the need for excess supervision while still upholding a strong level of confidence and security throughout the facility.

an aerial image of a building

Built for the Future

This prototype design reflects three key values:

  • Efficiency
  • Safety
  • Security

It enhances the working environment for staff and fosters a more rehabilitative space for detainees. By addressing long-standing challenges in detention operations, it paves the way for smarter, more sustainable justice facilities.

Logo Angles White
Jul 17

Supportive School Design

Sam Schaust's Author Photo
Sam Schaust

Supportive school design is shaped by the environments where students explore, learn, and discover. As designers, it’s imperative that we listen closely to feedback from students, educators, staff, and the wider community to better understand how our spaces can foster comfort, connection, and a strong sense of belonging. ...