CHINESE EMBASSY

With a total of 10,760 sq. meters, the site for the new Chancery Building is located within the International Center in the northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C. As the symbol of the People’s Republic of China in the United States, the building’s overall design is derived from a contemporary interpretation of traditional Chinese architectural planning principles. Its south facing symmetrical entrance layout, exterior and interior spatial sequences, and the use of gardens and outdoor spaces have resulted in a thoughtful and harmonious balance between the built form and the landscape. Based on the functional requirements and characteristics of the site, the new Chancery Building is composed of three distinct elements: the West Office Wing (adjacent to the Federal Building), the East Office Wing (adjacent to the Embassy of Singapore), and the Entrance Pavilion linking the two wings. From the Entrance Hall, visitors can go to the public area which includes reception rooms, banquet halls and the Grand Hall where important diplomatic functions will take place. The new Chancery Building also features a 200-seat auditorium for press conferences. The interior space uses the same design vocabulary as the exterior. Lighting fixtures have been specially designed to reflect the geometrical character of the overall space. Both public and office buildings have state-of-the-art facilities which create an optimal and secure working environment for the Chancery staff. The landscape design of the new Chancery is integral to the building, as all three structures are unified by the gardens and exterior spaces creating an environment of serenity and security.