SHoP architects references honduras' mountainous landscape in US embassy design

new renderings have been revealed featuring SHoP architects’ design for the new U.S. embassy in tegucigalpa, honduras. following the successful entry to the 2013 competition, the U.S. department of state’s office of overseas building operations (OBO) selected the firm to design and build the facilities that will host all its operational needs while showcasing both the spirit and values of the united states.

all images courtesy of SHoP architects

for the design of the U.S. embassy in honduras, SHoP architects was informed by the mountainous landscape of the central american country. the entrance to the building is located on the north façade, facing the city and creating a welcoming access to the chancery. featuring a more solid appearance, the east, west and south faces are closed but maintain openness through the use of glass. same as the exterior, the interior goes from open and transparent to ceremonious and bold.

‘this complex will provide a safe, secure, and modern facility platform for the embassy community and those it serves,’ commented the OBO on an official press release.

the building takes into consideration both solar shading and thermal comfort. to achieve both, different strategies will be implemented to reduce solar heat gain while allowing natural light in. the material palette plays an important role in connecting interior to exterior, incorporating the copper colored anodized aluminum fins used on the façade and referencing the light-toned limestone, warm, rich woods and dark stone visible throughout. 

‘the process of designing the NEC in tegucigalpa has been an incredible partnership between SHoP, the consultants and the OBO team,’ said chris r. sharples, founding partner of SHoP architects. ‘design challenges were met through a remarkably efficient, highly collaborative process between all parties and we are honored to be able to represent the united states in this capacity.’

the new embassy compound (NEC) is expected to break ground in late 2018 and to welcome its first occupants in 2022. SHoP  is currently working with OBO on several projects around the world, including the embassies in tegucigalpa and seoul.