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Collection by Allie Weiss

Modern Renovation of the South African Embassy in D.C.

Davis Brody Bond—a firm responsible for a number of prestigious cultural building projects, including the 9/11 Memorial Museum and the forthcoming Frick Collection expansion in New York—recently completed a subtle but tasteful renovation of the South African Embassy in Washington D.C. The remodel updates two existing buildings with green features, joining them together with a three-story glass atrium.

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The interior of the new glass atrium. The renovation adds 55,000 square feet to the complex, and a variety of green features, such as water-efficient plumbing, use of regionally sourced materials, and a design that capitalizes on natural light.
The interior of the new glass atrium. The renovation adds 55,000 square feet to the complex, and a variety of green features, such as water-efficient plumbing, use of regionally sourced materials, and a design that capitalizes on natural light.
The existing structures, built in the Dutch Cape style, received updated building systems, security, and general maintanence. The atrium now serves as the central entry point for the complex.
The existing structures, built in the Dutch Cape style, received updated building systems, security, and general maintanence. The atrium now serves as the central entry point for the complex.
A modern hallway connects the Chancery and Residence buildings.
A modern hallway connects the Chancery and Residence buildings.
The renovation also added more public space to the complex in the form of a modern courtyard. Native, drought-resistance plants limit water use.
The renovation also added more public space to the complex in the form of a modern courtyard. Native, drought-resistance plants limit water use.