Embassy Compendium

EMBASSY COMPENDIUM Case Studies on Embassy Building Type for Pre-Design Analysis Tyler Edward Wade August 1, 2016

ARC580-Programming and Research Methods in Architecture Professor Keelan Kaiser

Table of Contents Section I

Introduction Executive Statement Executive Summary

Section II

Preliminary Research History/Purpose American Institute of Architects Embassy Guidelines

Embassy Function

Defining Design Excellence

Integrating Security and Design Excellence

Issues Facing Diplomatic Facilities Security Concerns

Construction Speeds and Costs

Programming Design Drivers

Section III

Case Studies U.S. Embassy, Berlin, Germany U.S. Embassy, Helsinki, Finlad U.S. Embassy, N’djamena, Chad U.S. Embassy, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic U.S. Embassy, The Hague, Netherlands U.S Consulate General, Guangzhou, China U.S. Consulate General, Monterrey, Mexico U.S. Consulate General, Pristina, Kosovo U.S. Embassy, Vientiane, Laos U.S. Embassy, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Section IV

Building Type Analysis [Keyfindings] Security Program Location Sustainability

Section V

Conclusion

Section I

Introduction

Introduction Executive Statement

The point of this compendium is to gather different iterations of the embassy building type across the world in an effort to understand the type and then analyze what went into Pre-Design documents for each building. This compendium looks at US embassies specifically and their role in the foreign context.

Executive Summary There are three main sections included in this compendium:

First is initial fact gathering research about the building type in general

Second is US Embassy case studies from different parts of the globe

Third is an analysis based on the building type and preliminary research conducted

Pre-Design documents for government buildings are not easy to find, therefore, I provided the final building briefs and analyzed what the initial Pre-Design questions would have been based on those final solutions. Universal design and programming standards were put in place by the AIA by order of the OBO and that will should throughout the document. For each case study is listed qualitative and quantitative objectives that were assumed from the Pre-Design process.

The Pre-Design process, though strict, allows for design decisions to be made that can improve upon existing embassy buildings around the world. Each building has its own unique differences that the Pre-Design stage must noted to ensure safe and suitable design solutions. These decisions must be measured and analyzed for maximum output in the end.

The analysis portion sheds light on the commonalities between all of the projects and the AIA guidelines put in place for streamlined standards. Common issues facing embassy building types include safety and security, location, program and sustainability. All of these things are considered in the projects but results vary based on location and architectural preference.

Section II

Preliminary Research

Preliminary Research History/Purpose

*The information in this section was taken from the Daylighting the American Embassy document Before this discussion about the Embassy building type, we must first be aware of how embassies developed over time and what attributed to their growth. In order to do this diplomacy must be discussed because the two are directly connected. Diplomacy is the mission of the of the embassy and can be defined as the art and practice of conducting negotiations between nations with the grand objective being peace. Diplomacy plays a vital role in the interaction between two nations where the guest nation should learn about the host country and appreciate their cultural values. The diplomats in these foreign countries are a representative of America and that foreign country they live in. They act as mediators for the foreign country when negotiating between the two countries. Values, customs, and traditions vary substantially between nations; however, clear and effective lines of communication convey an attitude of appreciation despite cultural differences. Effective communication helps facilitate peaceful discussion leading to long lasting friendships between both countries.

In order for diplomacy to happen in a foreign country, facilities must be present and stable in order to have diplomatic execution. The lack of effective facilities does not foster diplomatic rhetoric and can hurt the process of discussion between the two counties. Facilities that a encompass an embassy are much more than buildings, but an idea that the building represents. Embassy is a group of people, the Ambassador and staff, that represent that United States of America in that specific country. Buildings that support these staff are called chancery. Although the building and the people who use it are two different entities, the building itself can effect those people. For instance, unsuccessful design of program, function, aesthetic, etc. can prohibit the diplomatic process and lead to disconnected communication all parties involved.

The embassy building itself is typically located in the capital city of the country and serves as a public and private office space that accommodates numerous people groups. It houses a complex dynamic of people from many other foreign groups, as well as, American departments in the country. Other than being a physical building for the Ambassador, it also serves as a symbolic icon for American values that can be seen by the host country.

Preliminary Research American Institute of Architects

*The information in this section was taken from the 54-AIA-Task-Force-Report-2009 document The American Institute of Architects is an organization compiled of professional architects and offers education, government advocacy, community redevelopment, and public outreach to those professionals. The AIA helps define universal guidelines for building types across the country. In this case, the AIA has provided some insight about the Embassy building type. In 2008, the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) asked the AIA to provide a programming document that discusses planning and designs for Embassy buildings.

The primary goal of the Task Force was to prepare a report for OBO that provided recommendations on: • Ensuring that all diplomatic facilities meet the security requirements as identified by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) to protect all Embassy personnel • Integrating security and design excellence to create high-performance diplomatic facilities • Providing American taxpayers with the best value for diplomatic facilities.

In order to get to these conclusions, the Task Force came up with survey questionnaires, interviews, and observed individuals whom work at embassies in order to sift of information worth noting. These processes were invaluable and helped define the problem the Task Force is meant to solve through extensive programming.

Preliminary Research Embassy Function

*The information in this section was taken from the 54-AIA-Task-Force-Report-2009 document The purpose of the U.S. Department of State’s embassy design and construction program, authorized and funded by Congress, is to provide more secure, safer, more functional and better-maintained facilities for American personnel who serve the U.S. Government in foreign countries. An Embassy is not only a function of its host government in a foreign land, but is a hub for visitors to go in need of assistance.

While preparing these recommendations, the task force is prompted to follow previous ideologies that should continue through the document: • Embassy should be the first impression to visitors and be the face of America.

• Be a beacon to people seeking assistance in any way the embassy can help • Secure and strong place for foreign staff and visitors to increase diplomacy in the country • Embassy must express American values and ideals inside and out With these ideologies comes risk to some extent. Security is always a risk not only to the people serving at the Embassy, but also the people of America. The actions that happen abroad impact what happens at home and that is something that needs to be considered when programming. There is a need to balance the security of the building, as well as, ensure the outward symbolic presence that reflects the openness inside.

Defining Design Excellence In meeting the challenges associated with stewardship of the vast national real-estate portfolio that GSA owns and leases, GSA has designated design excellence as its performance standard. These buildings express the vision, leadership, and commitment of the government to serving the public and the values of the nation. Specifically, design excellence in the GSA Public Buildings Service means: • Providing the best value to customer agencies and the American taxpayer; • Developing safe, productive, and attractive workplaces; • Operating efficiently and effectively – keeping projects on time and on budget; • Ensuring that projects respond positively to national urban and environmental policies; and • Selecting America’s most talented designers and artists to create facilities that ultimately become respected landmarks.

Preliminary Research

Integrating Security and Design Excellence *The information in this section was taken from the 54-AIA-Task-Force-Report-2009 document Integrating security and design excellence provides a blueprint for creating high-performance buildings. Design excellence encompasses safety and security, along with a wide range of goals: aesthetics, energy efficiency, sustainability, historic preservation, accessibility, flexibility of functions and work spaces, and user productivity. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the American Institute of Architects and the 21st Century Embassy Task Force that the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations adopt Design Excellence as a mandate to advance a new generation of secure, high performance embassies and diplomatic facilities that support the conduct of American diplomacy.

The State Department and OBO should commit to mandating a design excellence program for new embassies and diplomatic facilities. Several actions are necessary to realize the benefits of design excellence: • Establishing a policy mandate so that design excellence becomes part of OBO’s culture; • Setting up and supporting a peer-review process for selecting architectural/engineering firms and reviewing designs; • Providing design policy guidance to clearly establish design excellence in project activities, including site selection, planning, design, construction, and maintenance; • Applying appropriate building systems technology to projects according to their location, available personnel, cost, sustainability, and maintainability; and • Educating Congress and policymakers about the benefits of adopting a design excellence program, and the need to fund long-term facilities operations and maintenance costs.

Security Concerns The Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) is tasked with deploying security measures that keep the security of the diplomatic process in check. They serve as the international voice for security measures abroad for America. Among those measures include: standards and requirements for the site selection, site planning, design, and construction of U.S. embassies. Even after the buildings are complete, the DS examines the buildings and makes sure the integration is up to the standards that were put in place from the beginning. The reason for increased security is due to the rising attacks on Embassies over the last 20 years. Places such as Tanzania and Nairobi are the main reasons for the change.

Preliminary Research Construction Speed and Costs

*The information in this section was taken from the 54-AIA-Task-Force-Report-2009 document Due to an initiative, called the Inman program, the government wanted to increase the protection of buildings under construction overseas. It inevitably failed and the government had to find new means to protect ongoing construction.

In response to the performance problems experienced under the Inman program, State implemented numerous reforms to its management structure and contracting, planning, and construction processes. These reforms were designed to speed completion of projects, reduce costs, and standardize processes, and they had the cumulative effect of reducing the average construction cycle time by two years and nine months. Among the most prominent reforms were: • Elevating the former Office of Foreign Buildings Operations (FBO) to bureau status as OBO; • Relying on the design-build delivery method, which reduces the number of solicitation, proposal, and award processes from two to one and allows contractors to begin basic construction before the design process is completed; and • Convening the Industry Advisory Panel (IAP) on a quarterly basis to advise OBO on industry best practices on facilities management and construction issues.

Programming Design Drivers In 2002, OBO implemented the SED to expedite the planning, awarding, design, and construction of embassies and consulates. The SED is a series of documents that outline site and building plans, specifications, and design criteria, and explain how to adapt these specifications to a project and contract requirements. The SED is not an actual building design but rather a template that standardizes the basic plans for the structural, spatial, safety, and security requirements for each embassy, including the following: • Main office buildings and annexes; • Security features, such as the compound access control (CAC) buildings and perimeter walls; • Utility buildings, warehouses, and general services annex; • Living quarters for marine security guards (MSGQ); and • Employee and visitor parking.

The SED also identifies ways to allow for future building expansion on the site; establishes minimum permissible baseline standards for materials and interior finishes; and factors in environmental concerns such as temperature, humidity, dust, rain, and air quality when designing and selecting mechanical equipment.

Section III

Case Studies

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, Berlin, Germany Moore, Ruble, Yudell Architects and Planners *The information in this section was taken from the Moore Ruble Yudell webstie.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In leu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief This competition-winning design for the U.S. Embassy in Berlin adds a well-mannered statement of American presence and partnership to a context that is both potently historic and recently rebuilt.

The building serves simultaneously as supportive urban framework and companion for the nearby Brandenburg Gate, occupying a focal position at the symbolic and political center of the reunified Germany.

Entry sequences through the main lobby on Pariser Platz meet strictly-prescribed security criteria, yet are made more gracious: a glass-roofed rotunda offers the experience of an open courtyard. The grand cylindrical niche in the north-facing limestone facade allows direct and reflected sunlight to break through to the flag hanging just over the front door.

With a narrow building section wrapped around a spacious courtyard garden, the workplace is everywhere enhanced by proximity to light and views of landscape. The Embassy features green rooftops, using plant materials native to the American continent, giving the Embassy a green narrative, and linking the site to the grand context of the Tiergarten.

The glass lantern of the rooftop State Room presents a compelling image of democratic ideals, and provides a venue for luncheons and other high-level receptions, with spectacular views of the Reichstag and the new government center. Using only soft interior lighting at night, the lantern joins the Reichstag’s dome and the Quadriga sculpture on the Brandenburg Gate as part of the civic district’s collection of skyline landmarks.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Maintain American presence without overshadowing historic context 2) Location should be symbolic and help emphasize Germany’s united front 3) Entry sequence must be inviting, yet secure for staff and visitors 4) Fortress aesthetic on the exterior street-side, courtyard, light and open on the inside 5) State Room must be physical beacon to the building as a whole 6) Security must have layers of checkpoints, starting from the bollards that line the street 7) Atmosphere must use natural lighting to maximize diplomatic productivity

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, Helsinki, Finland Moore, Ruble, Yudell Architects and Planners *The information in this section was taken from the Moore Ruble Yudell website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief The existing United States Embassy campus in Finland sits on a three acre site just south of downtown Helsinki in the historically significant Kaivopuisto District, a leafy neighborhood that has spectacular views of the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea. The site sits at one of the southernmost points of land in the city where cruise ships and local passenger ferries pass by on a regular basis.

The two existing buildings on the site date between early 1900 and 1939 and the older building in particular suffered from chronic system failures. In addition, the staff has had inadequate space for its needs for quite some time so it was necessary to upgrade the existing buildings. The solution to include a new addition to the older building creates a new Chancery that has significant operational and physical security improvements.

The curved, sculptural shape of the addition is connected to the existing building with a glass enclosed entry lobby offering views of the gulf. A pedestrian only main entry pavilion is located on-axis with the entry lobby and an events terrace is located on the opposite site terminating the axis. Service functions for both buildings have been located on the opposite side at a below grade level away from the neighborhood and out of the line of site from the water and the harbor drive - Ehrenstromintie.

Three principal materials are used to articulate the curved form of the addition and address the different contexts and solar orientations of the facades: The ground level of the building is anchored by the use of the local black granite of Finland- the ubiquitous stone that can be seen in natural outcroppings around the city.

The west faรงade, facing the surrounding neighborhood, is constructed in white brick with projecting vertical bands of textured granite, catching the horizontal winter sun and recalling the speckled bark

of Finland’s indigenous birch trees.

The northeast façade faces the sea with walls of translucent, textured glass, bringing natural light into the building and creating a light, contemporary expression as seen from the water. By night the glass façade will be back-lit with LED sources- a soft glow creating a visible beacon and iconic presence for the embassy.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Embassy placement in a historical district, not in center of town 2) Location should not impede on Helsinki and overshadow its presence 3) Visibility to passenger travel port allows for added security is essential 4) Improve existing space needs for increased diplomatic process 5) Improve distinction between pedestrian traffic and staff access 6) Views to and from site should be from pedestrian access points only 7) Building must use local materials to fit the context as best as possible 8) Provide a naturally daylight space facing the water to optimize productivity 9) Create dynamic spaces between the new and old chancery

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, N’djamena, Chad Moore, Ruble, Yudell Architects and Planners *The information in this section was taken from the Moore Ruble Yudell website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief The New Embassy Campus in N’djamena, Chad, Africa is sited on a 13-acre site near the Chari River and comprises of the Chancery, marine guard residence and four support buildings. The site plan is organized in zones to help separate service and support buildings forming a buffer on the east. The principal 2/3 of the site is developed as a sustainable “Sahel” landscape in which the main campus buildings are set. The Chancery and residential architecture frame “Oasis” gardens for more frequent habitation. The gardens in turn temper the immediate outside environment, providing the relief of shade, greenery, and water to the views from the buildings’ interiors.

The typical exterior walls are concrete construction with an outer layer of ‘rainscreen’ paneling. The paneling is composed of thin-walled fibrous concrete mounted to a metal substructure. The limited material palette is intended to create a dignified and calm aesthetic, using a readily available, pragmatic system for shipping and assembly. Colors and surface textures of the panels provide scale and detail. The network of free-standing and building-mounted canopies mediate between building mass and surrounding landscape spaces. Canopies over the Lobby and Café are configured to collect rainwater to spill into rain gardens below. An architecturally expressive layer of horizontal and vertical sun controls will protect the interiors from direct sunlight and heat gain.

Both the project type and location pose various design challenges, however, the design evolved from goals to develop a sustainable project with future flexibility, durable integrated systems and low operating costs, and provide economic approaches to construction in a remote region with little or no local skilled labor. With photovoltaic panels on building and canopy roofs and a central utility building providing full on-site power generation, the campus is “off the grid”. Other sustainable initiatives include earth tubes, wastewater effluent reuse, and constructed wetlands.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Embassy to be a complex with self sustaining facilities 2) Support buildings in the complex should be separate around the main chancery 3) Security between buildings should be housed in one central location 4) Entry sequence passing through “invisible� layers of security 5) Provide tempered atmosphere outside to combat hot arid climate 6) Building must be constructed from limited materials native to Chad 7) Provide shading in exterior circulation paths for visitors in the hot climate 8) Natural lighting to provide daylight but mitigate thermal heat gain 9) Self-sustaining complex to be implemented through many different passive strategies

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Moore, Ruble, Yudell Architects and Planners *The information in this section was taken from the Moore Ruble Yudell website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief This new embassy for the Dominican Republic serves an island nation with close cultural ties to the United States—evidenced by a consulate large enough to feel like a border crossing. In response to its warm tropical climate, the new Chancery has been designed to allow abundant natural light into the interior spaces while providing deep canopies to shade exterior terraces, plazas and walks. At the heart of the Chancery a dynamic full-height atrium brings light into the center of the workplace, where the main lobby, dining, and meeting spaces for visitors and employees are gathered.

The 6.5 hectare site is organized into distinct zones related to use: Public and Consular functions at the front, Diplomatic and Embassy Community uses in the center, and Support and Service at the back, separated by garden walls and landscape. Giving order to the whole is a sculptural system of parallel walls of various heights, clad in limestone, creating layers of interior and exterior space all across the site.

Landscape complements this geometric pattern with a continuous flow of sinuous curves, accented by rows of native palms and ornamental plantings. Inspired by the Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle-Marx, the free-form movement of broad lawns and planting is continued in exterior paving patterns, and inside by the soaring vaults of the atrium.

Given its island context, the new embassy is virtually self-sustaining in terms of energy and basic utilities. Through such initiatives as photovoltaic power generation and intensive storm water management the project has been designed to attain LEED Silver certification.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Embassy to be a complex with multiple buildings serving different functions 2) Sustainable design strategies are to be implemented to provide better work environments 3) Natural lighting to be main feature in the main chancery 4) Aesthetic should play into security an function 5) Interior and exterior spaces for personal and visitor use 6) Creative pathways for playful leisure with added security points 7) Exterior connections between buildings to provide shading 8) Self-sustaining complex to be implemented through many different passive strategies

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, The Hague, Netherlands Moore, Ruble, Yudell Architects and Planners *The information in this section was taken from the Moore Ruble Yudell website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief The new U.S. Embassy at The Hague embraces its new rural setting by blending in with its surroundings, pleasing the local residents and city authorities, while meeting the programming requirements of the client.

A site was chosen outside the city in a rural district of large, privately owned country estates between the cities of The Hague and Wassenaar. The site itself has been a series of athletic fields for 50 years after it was bombed by the Allies in late 1945. It is surrounded by the country’s water canal system that helps to maintain over 40 percent of land area that would otherwise be underwater.

The main office building is maximized to its allowable zoning envelope and then a series of “pavilions” are carved out of the masses to house different parts of the program. The pavilions are connected together by circulation spaces and these wrap around a central service core. The public spaces of the building – the lobby, café and a communicating grand stair between the ground and first floors - are all located to be visible from the approach and entrance to the building.

Red brick is the main material and various patterns have been developed to help discern the hierarchy of the various buildings on the site with the office building becoming the most important.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Embassy to be set apart for the Hague proper to give relief from the other Embassy’s 2) Building is to blend with the city aesthetic and scale 3) Use natural landscape for design strategies 4) Provide separate buildings to define the chancery and add layers of security 5) Approach and visibility are essential for visitors 6) Materials should be local and dictate different programmatic functions

Case Studies

U.S. Consulate General, Guangzhou, China Skidmore, Owens, and Merill *The information in this section was taken from the Bureau of Overseas Building Operations website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase. Picture source from: www.codaworx.com

Project Brief The new Consulate General is located on a 7.4-acre urban site in Guangzhou’s booming new Central Business District adjacent to the Pearl River.

Situated in a garden setting, the seven-building complex includes a consular building, an office building, a residence for U.S. Marines, a warehouse with service shops, and three entrance pavilions to welcome employees, visitors, and consular customers.

The new Consulate General will create a secure and pleasant workplace for nearly 400 employees, and a friendly and comfortable place for visitors.

The new Consulate General is America’s second purpose-built facility in China, following the completion of the Beijing Embassy in 2008.

The stone-clad exterior concrete shell of the Consulate office building is an organic structural and environmental form. The curved shape maximizes the efficiency of these qualities while the inward cant along the east façade catches the prevailing easterly breeze, focusing it on the consular plaza.

This shape also gives the building a directional stance, emphasizing the civic quality of the more public eastern face. Its north and south ends, with their deep overhangs, provide welcome, open and warm gestures to the public.

The architectural conception of the main Consulate office building begins with the visa process itself. The need to move thousands of daily applicants through a seamless, simple, and clear spatial sequence is the primary public function of the consular plaza. The arching roof form provides shelter from the heat and rain; there is also a gathering space for those awaiting their appointments, which can accommodate over1,000 non-immigrant visa (NIV) and immigrant visa (IV) customers daily.

The facilities were designed for flexibility for current and future use. With the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and China evolving so quickly and the demand for consular services growing at such unprecedented rates, the building is designed to adapt to these changes easily with minimal cost.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Entry sequences to be inviting and easy to maneuver 2) Entry’s should be focal point of the chancery 3) Building should be a civic icon in the city 4) Centrally located lobby space to be focal point for entry and security 5) Large spaces with natural daylight throughout 6) Natural daylighting and heating/cooling should be implemented 7) Building should be able to be open for future change 8) Construction schedule should be accelerated without the loss of security measures 9) Complex to house multiple different functions from service to military

Case Studies

U.S. Consulate General, Monterrey, Mexico Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects *The information in this section was taken from the Bureau of Overseas Building Operations website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase. Picture source from: www.rhodeside-harwell.com

Project Brief The U.S. Consulate in Monterrey serves more than 400,000 visa applicants each year, making it the fifth-largest visa processing post in the world.

The new Consulate General is located on 10-acre site in the Santa Catarina, Nuevo Leon area and Includes a new office building with consular functions, a U.S. Marine Corps Residence, and support buildings.

The new Consulate General will create a secure, sustainable, and modern workspace for Consulate employees, and a friendly and comfortable place for visitors.

The dedication of the new Consulate General marks the United States’ third new diplomatic facility recently built in Mexico, with three additional facilities in the planning stages, including a new U.S. Embassy in Mexico City The office building is composed of two primary elements - a five-story structure clad with metal panels with a porcelain tile base and a two-story structure clad in local stone. The two-story structure acts as a counterpoint to the metal clad building and helps tie the building to the local geology.

The design provides for an open air elevated plaza that acts as a dining area for local staff, providing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

A main feature of the interior design is a two-story gallery of full height curtain walls to see the surrounding mountains. In addition this space also functions as a community meeting place and overflow space for the cafeteria.

The design includes a landscaped arrival court that directs the applicants through the consular access control pavilion through a terraced landscape consular garden then into a waiting room for consular services.

The campus design also includes a consular visitor parking structure that can accommodate over 150 cars and a standalone U.S. Marine Corps residence.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Find a balance between secure and inviting 2) Adhere to the local aesthetic with innovative ways 3) Entry sequence should be easy and secure 4) Optimize views to lush scenery from inside chancery 5) Approach and visiblity are essential for visitors 6) Communal work spaces should dual as overflow 7) Maximize diplomatic efficiency with natural systems 8) Indoor and outdoor spaces for visitors and staff

Case Studies

U.S. Consulate General, Pristina, Kosovo David Brody Bond *The information in this section was taken from the Bureau of Overseas Building Operations website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief The new U.S. Embassy is situated on a 12-acre site in central Pristina, approximately 0.9 miles southwest of the city center.

The complex includes a chancery office building, a Marine Security Guard residence, a support annex and utility building, and facilities for the Embassy community.

The new Embassy will provide a secure, modern, and environmentally sustainable platform for diplomacy in Pristina.

The building meets all Department standards for security and provides modern office space for Embassy staff. The interior office space is highly flexible to accommodate change and growth.

The new campus is designed to provide a presence in the cityscape of Pristina as a point of pride for both countries. The building siting takes advantage of views over the city center to the mountains. A multi-functional pond that is part of the mechanical system provides a landscaped foreground for the complex.

The design includes indoor and outdoor representational spaces for public events.

The landscaping includes pedestrian-oriented plazas and courts. The Consular Garden’s large group of flowering cherry trees recalls the geometry of local orchards.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Location to be proximate to Pristina, but not necessarily in Pristina 2) Spacious chancery must benefit diplomatic process 3) Complex of functions broken up for security measures 4) Use passive strategies to light and heat/cool the chancery 5) Chancery to be a beacon for both Kosovo and America 6) Building should be able to adapt to future expansion 7) Public gathering spaces separated from chancery for security measures 8) Use vernacular species for plants in the gardens 9) Entry should be clearly defined and link between functions

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, Vientiane, Laos Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects *The information in this section was taken from the Bureau of Overseas Building Operations website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase. Picture source from: www.pagelink.com

Project Brief The new U.S. Embassy is situated on a 7.4-acre site south of downtown Vientiane, on Thadeua Road leading to the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge.

The multi-building complex includes a chancery office building, a Marine Security Guard residence, a utility building, and a parking structure.

An American Center, scheduled for completion in late 2015, will be built on the current administrative compound in the downtown area.

The complex meets the Department’s security standards and provides modern office space for the embassy staff.

The architecture and landscaping interpret the local architecture, culture, and art and craft traditions in a contemporary fashion.

Sunshades covering the main and consular plazas provide respite from the direct tropical sun and humid climate for visitors awaiting visas or attending representational events.

The façade is covered in white terracotta panels with a stainless steel band at the roofline.

Significant water features in the landscape design, such as ponds and flowing water at the building entrance, reflect the importance of water in Lao culture.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Downtown location paramount for national ties 2) Chancery to be hub for American and Laos diplomacy 3) Individual military presence near chancery for security 4) Programming should adhere to department standards 5) Natural vegetation should be vital in outdoor spaces 6) Provide covered walkways between buildings 7) Entry sequence should feel fortified, but open when you get inside 8) Use natural climate conditions to implement passive systems

Case Studies

U.S. Embassy, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan Yost Grube Hall *The information in this section was taken from the Bureau of Overseas Building Operations website.

Information provided in this section is of a completed project that had no reference to a programming document. In lieu of that, I will be providing quantitative and qualitative objectives that were solved in the Pre-Design phase.

Project Brief The multi-building campus will be situated on a 17.3-acre site.

The campus will include an office building, a U.S. Marine Security Guard residence, a support annex, staff housing, and facilities for the Embassy community The new Embassy campus will provide a secure, modern, and environmentally sustainable platform for diplomacy.

The building meets all Department standards for security and provides modern office space for the embassy staff.

The building is designed within the context of Ashgabat, a city of white marble and geometrical architecture style.

The landscape includes local, drought-tolerant plantings that complement the site topography The building is designed with energy efficient lighting to reduce energy consumption.

Materials with recycled content will be utilized.

Pre-Design Objectives [Qualitative/Quantitative] 1) Chancery should be icon for America and Turkmenistan 2) Chancery should be visible, but fit existing aesthetics 3) Entry sequence should be easy and secure 4) Use of local materials is essential to aesthetic 5) Topography should influence design decisions 6) Separate functions to be broken up ensure high level of security 7) Use natural climate to implement passive systems 8) Entry should be clearly defined and easy to access 9) Multiple security checkpoints within the chancery and other complex buildings

Section IV

Building Type Analysis [Keyfindings]

*The information in this section is a summarization of the Case Studies, AIA Documentation, Fortress America document, State Department documents and other sources listed in the bibliography.

While looking over the AIA document provided to the U.S.Department of State and the numerous case studies, there are many factors that help define what kind of program and building must be done in order to have a functioning Embassy. Embassies are not a simple building; they are a complex of numerous buildings that all serve different functions while contributing to the Embassy complex as a whole. Embassy’s are intended to be the diplomatic center between a native country and a foreign country. It serves as a hub of information and diplomacy for visitors to go to when needing help with immigration, travel, etc. With all of that being said, there are a few key items I would like to analyze in regard to the Embassy building type and they are: Security, Program, Location and Sustainability.

Security One major elements that all of the buildings have in common is security. Security was something that has been considered a top priority, but as of the last twenty years, more incidents have occurred and have forced architects to design differently. In general, entries to the building have be limited so that there are less access points to get to the building. This allows for a more concentrated security effort centrally located instead of watching multiple locations. While limiting the entry points, there has also been a theory of having layers upon layers of security from inside the building to outside the building that help minimize the threats to the people working at the Embassy. This may include security checks outside the building at the first glance, and then more in-depth security checks inside. Security does not only happen after the construction, but during as well. Managing distinct entry points for staff and visitors has helped minimize the threats of the embassies overall. Invisible security is something that I took away from all of the resources. The idea that the people inside feel calm and safe without being in a stronghold. The importance of safety to the people building the embassy is imperative and that why there has been an increase in military presence on each of the new embassies. In case of security failure, the military is a failsafe to contain situations from escalating.

Program Another major element to embassy buildings is the program. The program being all of the functions it must serve in order to operate on a daily basis. Without this smooth operation, the diplomatic process is not efficient and eventally fails to some degree. Recently, embassies have been seperating program elements for safety and efficiency. Overall, most of the embassy buildings are arranged in a complex, with different buildings serving different functions. This allows for certain functions to operate individually, within the confines of the whole complex. This then becomes a more urban environment that promotes a more inviting feel that previous embassies did not have. Not only does this help the complex itself, but also informs the urban fabric of the city at large. Efficiency has been a byproduct of this urban principle, as well as, security for the complex if one building is comprimised.

Seperating the program helps minimize the damage that can be inflicted on the complex. This also alows for a more urban environment that promotes a more inviting feel that previous embassies did

Location Another major element to embassy buildings is the location. Determining the location of the embassy is a hard task. There has been a recent trend of embassies moving away from the city downtown proper, to the outskirts where it is still proximity for diplomacy to happen and still be self contained.

Sensitivity to the urban context is something that is highly valued and needs to be adhered to while these embassies are being designed. The embassy is meant to be a beacon of America in the host city while not overshadowing the existing context. Location is not purely for aesthetic preferences, it must also be located strategically to enhance the diplomatic process and provide civic cooperation.

This enhanced process has been most effective in urban cities, just outside the city centers. Being outside the city center allows for more flexibility for security measures without the restrictions by the city proper.

Sustainability The last major element to embassy buildings is the idea of sustainability. Sustainability has been an increasingly important characteristic in embassy buildings because of the movement from single building chanceries to more developed complexes. Having multi-building complexes allows for a more sustainable infrastructure that is independent from the host city. The independent infrastructure allows for passive strategies that make the complex stand alone and self-sustaining. Systems in place must not be complicated and should be able to be fixed by the maintenance. These may include water collection, passive/active daylighting and renewable energy. Self-sustainability also allows for added security for operating those systems. The people in charge of the maintenance are embassy workers that are screened and cleared for work. This is just another added benefit to a self-sustaining infrastructure. Overall, to ensure the longevity of complex, the facility must serve as a self-sufficient and self-containing unit that can be managed securely.

Conclusion The main qualitative objectives assumed from Pre-Design are: 1) Find balance between security and transparency 2) Sustainable and natural strategies are essential to diplomatic process 3) American presence in foreign country is paramount The main quantitative objectives assumed from Pre-Design are: 1) Complexes, rather that one building, are easier to safely and efficiently program 2) Space requirements must meet AIA Guidelines to ensure continuity 3) Buildings must be able to expand easily in the future Embassy design in general, is a wicked problem, where there are many variables that need to be met in order to ensure the safety and security for the people who use the space. Looking at the proper documents for designing embassies is essential in order to preserve continuity between projects.

Case studies are essential in understanding previous projects and how they can be better improved for future use. Taking the time to analyze the important information from those case studies makes the embassy design process much more efficient and concise.

Embassy design is following current trends that implement complexes in lieu of individual buildings for safety/security. This safety and security is directly linked to the program of the complex itself. Each program has a specific adjacency to the others determined by their programmatic function. In order to maintain security and have enough space for required program, location of the project is paramount.

The location of the complex will present certain sustainable strategies that should be implemented in order to have a self-sustaining complex.

Between the preliminary AIA documents, case studies on embassies and analysis based on those case studies should provide adequete information to develop a program and design that best fits country the embassy will be housed.

Bibliography Preliminary Research Graybar, Henry. “Fortress America: How the U.S. Designs Its Embassies.” CityLab. September

12, 2012. Accessed August 01, 2016. http://www.citylab.com/politics/2012/09/fortress-ameri ca-how-us-designs-embassies/3289/.

“Diplomacy for Design: New Embassies for the 21st Century.” American Institute of Architects, July

2009. Accessed July 28, 2016.

“Guiding Principles of Design Excellence in Embassy and Consulate Buildings.” American Institue of Architects, April 2010. Accessed July 28, 2016.

“What is an Embassy?” U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 28, 2016. http://diplomacy.state.gov/ discoverdiplomacy/diplomacy101/places/170537.htm

“Embassy Security, Construction and Maintenance.” US Department of State, June 4 2013. Accessed

July 29, 2016.

“The Embassy of the Future: Recommendations for the Design of Future US Embassy Buildings.”

The National Academies Press, 1986. Accessed July 29, 2016.

Burgin, Benjamin. Daylighting the American Embassy: An Intergration of Natural Daylight (Elgin:

Jusdon University, 2008), 2-6.

U.S. Embassy, Berlin, Germany “United States Embassy, Berlin.” Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners. Accessed July 29, 2016.

http://www.moorerubleyudell.com/projects/united-states-embassy-berlin-0.

U.S. Embassy, Helsinki, Finland “United States Embassy, Helsinki.” Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners. Accessed July 28,

2016. http://www.moorerubleyudell.com/projects/united-states-embassy-helsinki.

Lee, Lydia. “US Embassy.” Contract Design. November 2015. Accessed July 28, 2016.

U.S. Embassy, N’djamena, Chad “United States Embassy, N’djamena.” Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners. Accessed July 28,

2016. http://www.moorerubleyudell.com/projects/new-embassy-campus-ndjamena.

U.S. Embassy, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic “United States Embassy, Santo Domingo.” Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners. Accessed July

29, 2016. http://www.moorerubleyudell.com/projects/united-states-embassy-santo-domingo.

U.S. Embassy, The Hagu, Netherlands “United States Embassy, The Hague.” Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners. Accessed July 27,

2016. http://www.moorerubleyudell.com/projects/united-states-embassy-hague.

U.S. Consulate General, Guangzhou, China “U.S. Consulate General, Guangzhou, China.” Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. March

2014. Accessed July 28, 2016. http://overseasbuildings.state.gov/sites/admin-overseasbuild

ings.state.gov/files/pdfs/guangzhou_508.pdf.

U.S. Consulate General, Monterrey, Mexico “U.S. Consulate General, Monterrey, Mexico.” Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. July

2014. Accessed July 28, 2016. http://overseasbuildings.state.gov/sites/admin-overseasbuild

ings.state.gov/files/pdfs/monterrey_508.pdf.

U.S. Embassy, Pristina, Kosovo “U.S. Embassy, Pristina, Kosovo.” Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. May 2015. Accessed

July 31, 2016. http://overseasbuildings.state.gov/sites/admin-overseasbuildings.state.

gov/files/pdfs/pristina_508.pdf.

U.S. Embassy, Vientiane, Laos “U.S. Embassy, Vientiane, Laos.” Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. December 2015.

Accessed July 30, 2016. http://overseasbuildings.state.gov/sites/admin-overseasbuildings.

state.gov/files/pdfs/vientien_508.pdf.

U.S. Embassy, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan “U.S. Embassy, Ashgabat, Turmenistan.” Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. October 2015.

Accessed July 30, 2016. http://overseasbuildings.state.gov/sites/admin-overseasbuildings.

state.gov/files/pdfs/ashgabat_508.pdf.

Building Type Analysis [Keyfindings] Graybar, Henry. “Fortress America: How the U.S. Designs Its Embassies.” CityLab. September

12, 2012. Accessed August 01, 2016. http://www.citylab.com/politics/2012/09/fortress-ameri ca-how-us-designs-embassies/3289/.

“Diplomacy for Design: New Embassies for the 21st Century.” American Institute of Architects, July

2009. Accessed July 28, 2016.

“Guiding Principles of Design Excellence in Embassy and Consulate Buildings.” American Institue of Architects, April 2010. Accessed July 28, 2016.

“Embassy Security, Construction and Maintenance.” US Department of State, June 4 2013. Accessed

July 29, 2016.

“The Embassy of the Future: Recommendations for the Design of Future US Embassy Buildings.”

The National Academies Press, 1986. Accessed July 29, 2016.