[5] However, as the number of court cases in Glasgow grew, it became necessary to commission a modern courthouse for criminal matters.

The building is notable for its imposing mock Brutalist form – with its detail interior features being strongly influenced by the style of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, with bespoke light fittings, skylights, dividing walls and lift interiors all designed to the Mackintosh language.

The main atrium and circulation spaces conformed strongly to the Brutalist paradigm, with soaring exposed concrete ceilings and pillars.

[9] In 2008, the roof of the building was fitted with 700 square metres of solar panels, with the capacity to create some 97 kW of power.

The system cost £500,000 to install, has an expected life-span of forty years, and is predicted to cut £20,000 from the Court's electricity bill, whilst saving around forty tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.