The Ethiopian Dutch Embassy Juts Out in Several Directions
Jordy E — April 2, 2013 — Art & Design
References: ethiopia.nlembassy.org & gizmodo
The Ethiopian Dutch embassy shakes up standard diplomatic abodes. While many feature grandiose layouts and upscale materials, architects Dick van Gameren and Bjarne Mastenbroek brought an alternative angular concept to life.
Multiple cultural elements are infused into the floor plans of this bureaucratic space. This stems from its rough walls, a direct offshoot of the red earth that is present in Ethiopia. A shallow pool was also incorporated, stemming from the Netherlands' low to the ground geography.
Ecological aspects are also present here. As it sits sloped in a downwards manner, beams of sunlight are used to heat, cool and ventilate the embassy's interior. It follows that it won the 2007 Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
Multiple cultural elements are infused into the floor plans of this bureaucratic space. This stems from its rough walls, a direct offshoot of the red earth that is present in Ethiopia. A shallow pool was also incorporated, stemming from the Netherlands' low to the ground geography.
Ecological aspects are also present here. As it sits sloped in a downwards manner, beams of sunlight are used to heat, cool and ventilate the embassy's interior. It follows that it won the 2007 Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
Trend Themes
1. Alternative Diplomatic Abodes - Architects are reimagining the traditional diplomatic embassy design by incorporating alternative, angular concepts.
2. Cultural Infusion in Diplomatic Spaces - Designers are incorporating cultural elements into embassy floor plans, creating spaces that reflect the identities of both the host and guest countries.
3. Ecological Embassies - Embassies are embracing sustainable design practices, utilizing natural elements such as sunlight for heating, cooling, and ventilation.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Design - Architects and designers have the opportunity to innovate and create unique embassy spaces that challenge traditional norms and incorporate cultural and ecological elements.
2. Sustainable Energy - The integration of natural energy sources like sunlight in embassy design presents opportunities for the renewable energy industry to provide innovative solutions for heating, cooling, and ventilation.
3. Cultural Relations and Diplomacy - The infusion of cultural elements in embassy design fosters stronger cultural and diplomatic relations between nations, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration.
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