Australian Embassy in Washington, DC,
designed by Bates Smart
In 1964, the Bates Smart McCutcheon office was selected to design the new Australian Embassy in Washington, DC. This commission resulted in the first building created specifically for Australian diplomacy since the construction of Australia House in London in 1913-1918. Almost 100 years later, Bates Smart designed a new embassy building that pays homage to its predecessor, built on the same site.
The transition from the international style of 1967 to the new architecture symbolizes the development of Australia's arts and culture and the celebration of what is its unique heritage
- Says Simon Swaney, former Managing Director of the office of the
Australian Embassy in Washington - view from 16th Street (First Baptist Church is next door)
© Joe Fletcher
the building's symbiosis with its surroundings
The Australian Embassy in Washington is one of the country's largest diplomatic missions, and its design by Bates Smart combines both an important public space and a lasting symbol of the continent. The building's location takes into account the transition from the residential area to the north to the more commercial area to the south. The Embassy, with a rectangular plan with one corner beveled, is located near Scott Circle and blends harmoniously with the city's character. Its main entrance on the south side faces the White House, while the eastern facade faces the historic district on 16th Street.
Australian Embassy in Washington - first floor plan
© Bates Smart
Facades inspired by the nature of Australia
The lump of the embassy is inspired by the landscape of Australia and captures the essence of this ancient, vast continent inhabited by the world's oldest culture. Materials and light play a key role in the design - undulating glass facades, punctuated by horizontal copper slats, create a contrast between warm brownish tones and the reflecting blue sky. The building's appearance changes throughout the day, depending on the observer's perspective.
The façade of the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C., combines glazing with copper slats
© Joe Fletcher
embassy interiors
- Australia's downtown Washington , DC
The transparent first floor and spaciousness of the interiors evoke the landscapes of Australia. At the heart of the building is a large atrium, which acts as a central orientation space around which various staff areas are arranged.
Australian Embassy in Washington - the main material used in the design is Australian wood
© Joe Fletcher
The main material used in the project is Australian wood, arranged in horizontal strips of varying textures - from rough to smooth. This treatment symbolizes the protective properties of tree bark in the cycle of growth, fire and renewal of eucalyptus forests. Glazing and metal slats introduce a play of light and shadow in key recreational and office areas.
Australian Embassy in Washington - interior view
© Joe Fletcher
staff social area
The staff social center is a key space in the building. It consists of a series of rest areas, connected vertically by a representative staircase, which facilitates movement between departments and promotes integration, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. The main social space on the second floor serves as a meeting place, allowing employees to interact with visitors. The casual bar, made of sustainable materials, references the rugged Australian character and promotes Australian art and design.
Australian Embassy in Washington DC - leading Australian furniture designers were responsible for the interior design
© Joe Fletcher
furniture with australian character
A collaboration with the Design Institute of Australia resulted in the selection of leading Australian furniture designers whose work reflects the country's signature aesthetic. Among the featured pieces are a reinterpretation of iconic 1960s sofas by Robyn Boyd in the waiting room, a conference table designed by Simon Ancher and Franco Crea armchairs. In addition, the embassy's interiors are enriched by displays of Australian artworks that highlight the richness of its cultural heritage, with a particular focus on the work of indigenous peoples.
Australian Embassy in Washington - interior view
© Joe Fletcher
ecological approach
and sustainability
The embassy's green approach demonstrates Australia's leadership in sustainable design, manufacturing and construction. The building is seeking LEED Gold certification and Greenstar certification from the Green Building Council of Australia, which would make it the first foreign project with this distinction.
The Australian Embassy in Washington - entrance view
© Joe Fletcher
Design and construction teams from Australia, the U.S. and other countries collaborated to create a facility that captures the Australian spirit while respecting the local context and values of international diplomacy
- highlights Steve Jones, Studio Director
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Bates Smart studio.
