The new Embassy will showcase the very best in Australian design, materials and architectural excellence, thanks to the innovative design by prominent Australian architectural studio, Bates Smart, who also designed the current Embassy building over half a century ago. It will promote an enduring vision of a contemporary and innovative Australia, while paying tribute to the unique Australian landscape. The design embodies the spirit of Australia through direct references to its distinctive geography, with bright and clear natural light and open skies, warm materiality, and vast scale — creating a symbol of Australia that is both welcoming and enduring. The new building includes an expansive glass atrium and a large open public space looking towards another of Washington’s historic structures, the White House, with an exhibition gallery and function spaces.
Innovative environmental design solutions will be used throughout the building, with the construction of the new embassy being formally registered with a Green Star rating. To achieve this Green Star rating, innovative design solutions will be utilised, including a thermally efficient façade, a green roof with an extensive photovoltaic array, expansive use of natural light and the latest building services technologies. The environmental focus of the new embassy demonstrates Australia’s global leadership in sustainable design, construction and products.
The decision to construct a new Embassy in the heart of the Washington diplomatic precinct reinforces the strength of Australia’s relationship with the United States and our commitment to our most important economic, security and political partner.
The new Embassy is scheduled to become operational in Q3 of this year with an official opening slated for Q4.
Monitor this page for further status updates.
Contact
Clark Construction Group is leading the construction efforts on the project and have established a dedicated email address to provide neighbours a point of contact for questions or concerns about the project: australianembassyneighborhoodrelations@clarkconstruction.com. Clark remains committed to responding to all enquiries in a timely manner.