Embassy of Australia, Washington D.C.

Agency: Bates Smart in association with KCCT
Client: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - Overseas Property Office

The design of the new Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. was complex, necessitating a delicate balance between cultural representation, iconic civic presence and practical security considerations. The primary objective was to create a building that embodies Australia's spirit, its vast open landscapes and its dynamic open culture, while establishing a recognisable and enduring presence in the heart of Washington.

The inspiration came from Australia’s iconic landscape and embodies the essence of our vast continent. The building’s transparency manifests the inherent Australian values of welcomeness and trust, while the interior’s expansive atmosphere is representative of the vastness of the Australian landscape. At the heart of the 20,000sqm building, a large atrium serves as an orienting space displaying a powerful connection between the ground plane and the sky. This central atrium establishes a north south axial arrangement of representational spaces where every visitor is granted an equally immersive experience on entry. The main representational spaces are defined by strong materiality with Australian timber wall panels, that provide both air reticulation and sound absorption, organised around a series of textured horizontal bands that transition from rough to smooth. This mirrors the protective qualities of the bark during the eucalypt forest's cycle of growth, burn and regrowth. Intricate metallic filigree screens mediate the interplay of light and shadow in social breakout and office spaces. The security screening area provides access to the staff lifts, the consular department and a representational waiting space, allowing for the clear separation of these key flows. The representational waiting space serves as the threshold to the formal and ceremonial areas and is furnished with bespoke rugs of Aboriginal design and handcrafted Australian designed furniture. The workplace component required flexibility for 13 different government agencies leading to a U-shaped plan and side core arrangement to ensure efficiency and flexibility of departments over time. A key element of the design was the staff hub;, a series of breakout spaces vertically linked by a feature stair within the controlled access zone, encouraging staff to move easily between departments and social spaces. This environment is an open, warm, light-filled space to naturally gather and engender workplace cohesion. A state-of-the-art gallery space is dedicated to displaying the embassy’s permanent collection as well as changing exhibition of artworks, sculptures and audio-visual displays. The works emphasise Australia’s artistic excellence, rich Indigenous heritage and depict the stories of vibrant diaspora communities, showcasing our creative culture to the world. A collaboration with the DIA identified a number of leading local furniture designers. Incorporating both contemporary and historically significant designs, the selection celebrates the essence of Australian design. Crafted using sustainable materials and finishes the pieces embody a future-forward aesthetic and informality. The selection and commissioning process for the embassy artworks was guided by the Government's cultural policy of drawing inspiration from Australia's cultural infrastructure, prioritising First Nations representation, creating a space for diverse voices, and ensuring a meaningful and engaging experience for all visitors. Sustainability plays a vital role with LEED Gold Certification earned through innovative design.