Diplomacy projects
US New Embassy Complex in Brasilia
PROJECT INFO
Location
Brasilia
Status
Under Construction
Owner
Overseas Building Operations (OBO)
Client
Studio Gang
Type
Diplomacy
Size
25.000m²
Other Features
Architectural Concrete structure
Sustainability and environmental consciousness
Brazilian and American cultural elements in the design
Landscape "Cerrado"
The architecture of the US Embassy in Brazil strives to create a lively and eco-friendly environment that integrates distinct Brazilian elements, including the inventive use of reinforced concrete and a prevalence of indoor and outdoor spaces
The new chancellery has a curved shape, offering a memorable experience to visitors and meeting the complex needs of the embassy. The landscape design is based on a series of arches that blend organically, creating a variety of outdoor patios and rooms. The embassy is designed to facilitate communication, providing a range of flexible spaces for people to connect and collaborate. Additionally, the project values local biodiversity by reintroducing the native cerrado landscape and employing sustainable strategies, such as the use of drought-tolerant plants, water recycling, and solar optimization to reduce energy consumption. The project's aesthetics also incorporate the work of artist Athos Bulcão, bringing vibrant colors and innovative patterns to the embassy's facade. The new US Embassy seeks to unite functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic beauty in a space that promotes interaction and connection among people. ATRIA serves as the local architect and co-author of architecture and engineering design for this effort in collaboration with Studio Gang and KCCT Archtiects.
The project aims to honor the history of the location and the city of Brasília by preserving the historic landscape and original features, such as the courtyard designed by renowned Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx. Additionally, the architecture of the building pays tribute to Brasília's modernist legacy by incorporating curvilinear forms that reflect the city's aesthetic.
The project prioritizes sustainability and environmental consciousness by incorporating advanced strategies and systems, such as photovoltaics, stormwater management, and an HVAC system with active chilled beams. Additionally, locally sourced and sustainable materials are used, and the project includes a landscaping design that revitalizes the Embassy's historic gardens and utilizes native plant species from the Cerrado, promoting biodiversity and highlighting the importance of this ecosystem to Brazil. The project also seeks to achieve sustainable building certifications, such as LEED® Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council and PROCEL certification for energy efficiency.
ARCHITECTURE CONCEPT DESIGN TEAM
Studio Gang, Lead Architect
Atria, Local Architect
KCCT, Associate Architect
Olin, Landscape Architect
engineering & Consultant Team
Thornton Tomasetti, Structural, Façade, Blast Engineer
Arup, MEP, Acoustical, AV, Lighting Engineer
Langan, Civil Engineer
Atelier Ten, Environmental Engineer
Mason & Hanger, Telecom & Secure MEP Engineer
Jensen Hughes, Security, Fire Protection, Life Safety Engineer
Hopkins, Food Service Consultant
Morris Wade Associates/Dharam Consulting, Cost Management
