U.S. Embassy

The Chancery features three and four story building masses linked by a four-story linear atrium with north facing roof monitors providing controlled natural light. The extreme climate became one of the project's major challenges and solar studies informed building orientation and asymmetrical sun shades to enhance energy efficiency Dynamic contrasting patterns of shade and light created by exterior sun shades and overhangs enliven the façades of the simple and economical structure. Site planning focused on preserving and enhancing the ecology of the tropical site. Strategies included storm water capture and reuse through a series of flumes and channels that provide a natural system of drainage and irrigation, and preservation of green space within this urban setting. Buildings enclose a central green anchored by the Marine residence and the recreation facility. Trellises and grade changes form an inviting sequence of "outdoor rooms" and garden areas, which feature local stone and ornamental metal work in the fencing, walls, plazas, and pavilions.

The new self-sufficient embassy performed as designed during the 2010 earthquake and served as a rescue base supporting more than double its design population off the grid during the recovery.

 

 

Location:

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Size:

142,396 SF

Client:

J A Jones International LLC

Owner:

U.S. Department of State, OBO

Cost:

$74.5M

Services:

• Architecture
• Sustainable Design
• Security
• Construction Administration
• Programming
Close