EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA, WASHINGTON D.C.
Australia’s ‘home away from home’ in the United States makes a striking impression on visitors to Washington D.C.’s illustrious Embassy Row. First in a prestigious line of landmark buildings, the Bates Smart design peeks from above the treetops. Its sleek, folded copper and glass façade catches the eye and reflects a proud history and enduring relationship of two nations.
The design, inspired by Australia’s vast and ancient landscape, speaks to the continuity and resilience of the world’s oldest living culture. And its innovative approach to sustainability signals a commitment to a brighter, greener future.
At a glance
- ClientAustralian Government Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
- ServicesCost Management & Quantity Surveying
- sectorPublic & Civic, Commercial
- LocationWashington D.C., United States
Trusted precision, progress together
Our journey with the new Australian Embassy began with an initial feasibility study in 2009. It’s been an epic odyssey, but the building that represents our nation today is testament to a visionary client and a dedicated project team. We are immensely proud to have played our part bringing this ambitious dream to life.Matt Richard, Director, RLB Australia
RLB has worked with the Australian Government to deliver more than 50 diplomatic posts around the globe. We understand the complex challenges of bringing an Australian design to life on foreign soil. With a global network of 4,500 professionals in 130 offices, we could pull together a powerhouse team, with RLB ACT (Canberra) and RLB Washington D.C. working seamlessly to execute the project with precision.
The Australian Embassy brings a new sense of arrival as visitors approach the Capitol. This special building changes throughout the day as the light shifts. It’s a sight to see and our team felt privileged to work on it.Kirk Miller, Principal, RLB Americas
A timeless design combines nature and innovation
This is one of the first embassies in Washington D.C. to attain LEED Gold status and the inaugural Australian embassy to achieve a Green Star rating.
Sustainably-sourced Australian timber, the centrepiece of the foyer’s material palette, tells a story of the eucalypt forest's cycle of growth and regrowth.
- 2nd
embassy in Washington, D.C. to earn LEED Gold
- 19,900m2
space
- 4Star
Green Star rating
Green innovations and grand impressions
While the Australian Embassy’s advanced sustainability features – such as its thermally-efficient façade, green roof and photovoltaic array – might not be immediately apparent, its dramatic street presence, striking First Nations artwork and expansive atrium are impossible to ignore. It’s a building that showcases innovation, connects two nations and flies the green and gold with pride.
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