
Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center
Public Building Design that Encourages Civic Engagement
Project Location
Phoenix, AZ
Client
Maricopa County (AZ)
Area
260,000 SF
Services
Architecture, engineering, interiors, acoustics, low-voltage security, audiovisual, and lighting design services
Building Trust in the Democratic Process
The new facility sets a new standard for election infrastructure, demonstrating how thoughtful design can inspire trust, enhance transparency, and support the democratic process for future generations. Our design creates a space that protects every vote while fostering transparency and building public confidence in the integrity of elections.
Secure Ballot Handling
A perforated metal scrim encloses the ballot tabulation center, enhancing physical security with a controlled barrier while also reducing direct visibility to ensure voter privacy and the confidentiality of ballot processing. Additionally, our design carves 73,000 SF of warehouse space below-grade to secure voting equipment and maintain a cooler temperature to reduce mechanical loads. The overall design ensures top-tier election security and communicates the meticulous and public nature of counting every vote, reinforcing Maricopa County’s commitment to election transparency and accountability.


Maximize Focus
Our acoustic design prioritizes speech privacy, operational confidentiality, and occupant comfort, particularly in areas critical to ballot processing and administrative functions. Storefront Glass Systems, used for office fronts and viewing windows into ballot processing areas with laminated or acoustically rated glazing, mitigate sound transmission while preserving visual transparency and oversight. Designated quiet work areas ensure noise-sensitive functions are shielded from high-traffic zones. Sound-absorbing acoustic panels, carpeting, and ceiling baffles further minimize noise, contributing to improved focus and team dynamics.


Design as Public Catalyst
The facility serves as a transparent and inclusive hub for Maricopa County’s electoral processes, demystifying the voting lifecycle and educating the public. Universal design principles accommodate diverse users, from full-time staff to seasonal workers and community visitors. Public spaces encourage civic participation while ensuring operational areas remain secure and efficient.
Sustainability is embedded throughout the design. Shared parking facilities minimize environmental impact, durable low-maintenance finishes enhance longevity, and passive cooling strategies reduce energy consumption. Resource efficiency and operational resilience are central to supporting broader goals of building high-performance civic infrastructure that serves current and future generations.

