In June, 1896, the justices of the first department approved plans for the construction of a courthouse suitable for the sort of court that elihu root had envisioned.

The architect commissioned to prepare plans for the new courthouse was James Brown Lord, who was given complete control of the artists and their work. Lord turned to the high classical tradition’s use of columned porches and statues, drawing on the style and tradition of Andrea Palladio, the famous architect of Vincenza. To fund this courthouse, the City of New York budgeted $700,000, a large sum for such a building in those days. The courthouse in fact cost only $633,768, and was completed in tie for its scheduled opening in 1900.

On January 2, 1900, the Court took formal possession of its new courthouse at 27 Madison Avenue.

The Appellate Division, First Department, has remained at this 25th Street location since that time.

Efforts to preserve the Court’s history are ongoing. In addition, a program has been undertaken to repair and restore the landmark courthouse exterior, as well as the courtroom dome, stained glass and murals.

Architect James Brown Lord’s Use of columned porches and Statues drew on the high classical Style and tradition of famed Architect Andrea Palladio

Statues on the roof of the courthouse.

Wisdom— Charles Duddarth Kelly Collection

The stained glass of the Appellate Court building is one of is most impressive features. The building contains 27 leaded glass windows, 13 of which could be considered artistic windows with the remainder more simple geometric designs. The courtroom contains the impressive ceiling dome and 3 windows on both the north and south walls. The dome is composed of 16 radiating panels.

The side windows each have a transom making a total of 12 panels in the walls. There are also additional windows on the second and third floors and in the back stairwell.