Washington, DC (December 2023)

In October of this year, the new Embassy of Australia held an opening ceremony to celebrate the highly anticipated completion of the six-story, 220,000 SF new building on Scott Circle. KCCT joined construction contractor Clark Construction at the event, where Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese was also in attendance to officially declare the embassy open.

Notable for a timeless design evocative of the distinct colors, materiality, and form of the Australian landscape, the new Embassy of Australia features a distinctive thermally efficient façade, a green roof with an extensive photovoltaic array, and an expansive use of natural light through the glass atrium.

“This was a unique project with unusual challenges,” said KCCT Principal John Chapman. “Replacement of the Embassy on the original site required design and fit-out of a nearby temporary embassy. Our project team collaborated across ten time zones, and navigated through dual building codes and building performance optimization standards to provide the Government of Australia with a uniquely Australian facility that is inviting, functional, and secure.”

Click here for the opening celebration video

Firm History

Washington, DC-based KCCT is a multidisciplinary design firm focused on planning, architecture, and interior design in urban environments. The firm’s unique practice features a regional portfolio ranging from historic preservation to institutional and commercial designs. With nearly 40 years of experience in international design, KCCT also brings a global perspective to our work with diplomatic, military, and transportation projects in over 185 cities abroad. KCCT’s values are innovative design, technical quality, and an unwavering dedication to service.