The exceptional architectural characteristic of this establishment is its cupola, which lies on a balustraded octagonal base atop which are 24 Corinthian columns.

Inside of the dome contains a coffered ceiling of plaster with a stained glass skylight covering the central opening.

A one-story circular limestone war monument which is constructed of 8 columns and a roof is directly in front of the central gateway on the north facade.

The position of the Cortland County Courthouse, the plot of the old Normal School, was mainly based on the locations of its 2 predecessors.

All 3 buildings were constructed on or adjoining West Court Street, within around 2 and one-half blocks of each other, and close to the geographic center of Cortland city.

As Cortland County Courthouse is the imitation of the U.S. Capitol, it mirrors both the grandeur in public buildings of the period and the fancy of copying a national model on the local level.