Located in the steppes where temperatures range from 30 degrees below zero in winter to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, the main challenge, beyond the security measures associated with a U.S. embassy compound, became the extreme weather conditions. Set on a 21 acre site within the diplomatic zone of Astana, this nine building compound includes a Chancery, three compound access control facilities, an ambassador's residence, Marine Security Guard Quarters, and utility, warehouse, and new annex office buildings. KCCT was responsible for the entire master planning of the compound, and the design of the new Chancery Office Building. Design and construction totaled 32 months.