NOTE: This article was corrected on January 29, 2026, properly attributing the 1990-96 restoration of the Somerset County Courthouse to Ford Farewell Mills and Gatsch with Michael J. Mills, FAIA, as Partner in Charge of the project.
Over 3,000 people across the country responded to a recent survey conducted by LovevsDesign.com about which underrated public buildings in their state they find most aesthetically beautiful. Radio Station New Jersey 101.5’s Jeff Deminski picked up the news, highlighting the New Jersey architecture that was recognized!
Read More: Beautiful public buildings in New Jersey you might overlook
We are delighted to share the architects responsible for these noteworthy buildings!
#3 in New Jersey: Warren County Courthouse (Rendering by Raymond O’Brien Architects)
The original Warren County Courthouse was built between 1825 and 1826 by L. H. Lewis as part of a larger plan by landowner and future New Jersey Governor Garrett D. Wall, who donated the land for the courthouse and surrounding public square.
Since its original construction, several architects have been responsible for major renovations and additions:
- 1953 Renovation: Designed by architect Louis Hajdu of Alpha, NJ.
- 2016 Complete Exterior Renovation: American Institute of Architects New Jersey Chapter Member Raymond E. O’Brien, AIA, of Ray O’Brien Architects, Inc. in Blairstown, NJ, Architect of Record. Mr. O’Brien has been responsible for a variety of additional renovations to the courthouse, which began in 2007 and continue through ongoing projects to date.
#2 in New Jersey: Hoboken Public Library (Photo by Clarke Caton Hintz)
The original Hoboken Public Library building (built 1895-1897) was designed by local architect Albert Beyer, in the Italian Renaissance Revival Style.
Recent award-winning restoration and modernization projects have been designed by American Institute of Architects New Jersey Chapter members Michael Hanrahan, FAIA, John D. S. Hatch, FAIA & James Giresi, AIA, of the architectural firm Clarke Caton Hintz (CCH) of Trenton, NJ.
And DRUMROLL PLEASE…
#1 in New Jersey: Somerset County Courthouse, Somerville, NJ (Photo by Somerset County)
The architect for the historic Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville, NJ, completed in 1909, was James Riely Gordon, working with the firm {Gordon, Tracy and Swartwout} of New York, known for Beaux-Arts designs. Gordon was a renowned courthouse architect who also designed the Arizona State Capitol.
Award-winning AIA NJ Member Firm Ford Farewell Mills and Gatsch were responsible for the restoration of the Somerset County Courthouse in 1990-96, with Historic Preservation specialist Michael J. Mills, FAIA, as Partner in Charge.
The 2021 lobby/security addition involved architects from the American Institute of Architects NJ Member Firm SSP Architectural Group, preserving the landmark’s character while providing for modern updates.
Being recognized for the beauty and impact of these projects is a meaningful reminder of the power of architecture to inspire communities – past, present, and future. We are grateful to see this work celebrated and proud to have played a role in preserving such beloved public landmarks.
Congratulations to all the architects, especially our members!
