PRESERVE - REUSE - REFRAME: Giving New Life To U.S. Embassy Building in Karachi

University of Karachi, Department of Visual Studies

Project idea

Karachi is one of the major cities of Pakistan with a rich and diverse cultural heritage which includes many architectural styles and histories. Growing urban areas, development trends, population increase, ecological, and economic issues have led to urban decay of the old historic city and the abandonment of architectural heritage. Buildings often outlive their original purpose, a phenomenon evident in Karachi. This thesis explores the symbolic history of the US Embassy in Karachi, designed by modernist architect Richard Neutra. Initially embraced by optimism, it succumbed to controversy and was left abandoned. Through the efforts of local architects and the Neutra Institute, it escaped demolition and is awaiting redevelopment. As the world is in a climate emergency, circular ways of thinking have become an important aspect, and adaptive reuse has become an integral part of architectural discourse. Reuse can help tackle climate change and add value to the architectural project by adding different layers of narratives, strengthening the sense of place, and assisting people to connect with it. Karachi has many redundant buildings (including the U.S. Embassy building) that can be reused to meet current environmental needs and growing urbanization. Instead of restoring the structure to its original state, this thesis takes a more nuanced approach- the intervention seeks to “Reframe” the building by reinterpreting its previous architectural elements and spatial conditions to create fresh, cultural and contextually relevant effects rooted in the ideas people. This approach promotes a more open and inclusive vision for its future.

Project description

The thesis proposes “Five Points for Adaptive Reuse” through which five strategies were derived for redeveloping the U.S. Embassy building.

Part One: Back Story
Strategy: Layers of history
Neutra Institute seeks to convert the building into a cultural centre. Their plan involves carefully restoring the building and treating it as a monument this approach prioritizes certain history while diminishing the additions made throughout the years. Such an approach will be deemed as inauthentic and authoritarian. Instead of restoration, this thesis aims to preserve the different layers of history to create an original, open-ended structure that encapsulates varying layers of history, narratives and interpretations. This approach respects the building’s rich history and promotes a more open and inclusive vision for its future.

Part Two: ORDER
Strategy: Integration of Old and New
The existing building was mostly reused, allowing maximum compatibility between the old structure and the new function. To maximise the usage of the building, its existing order was thoroughly analysed to ensure integration while simultaneously fulfilling current needs. Large warehouse spaces were converted into theatre and exhibition areas, while office spaces were transformed into administrative and educational areas.

Part Three: PROGRAM
Strategy: Cultural Center
The existing was converted into a cultural centre, housing a museum dedicated to Richard Neutra and the U.S. Embassy. Embassy equipment found in the building will be put on display, and an archive of Modern Architecture in Pakistan will be permanently showcased. This will allow the people to engage with the rich and controversial history of the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan and its impact on the country’s architecture. Permanent functions were integrated into the existing building while flexible performing and exhibition spaces were incorporated into the new addition.

Part Four: NEW LAYER?
Strategy: Reframe
Instead of restoring the structure to its original state or creating a contrast between old and new, this thesis takes a more nuanced approach- the intervention seeks to “Reframe” the existing building by reinterpreting its previous architectural elements and spatial conditions to create fresh, cultural and contextually relevant effects rooted in the ideas and patterns of people.

Part Five: BEYOND
Strategy: Urban intervention
As many countries are revitalizing their historical city areas, one can envision a similar transformation for the old city area in Karachi. This thesis proposes a network of underground tunnels connecting multiple public sites in the vicinity. This network will allow people to move safely between different public sites, shielded from road traffic above.

Technical information

The existing building is retained while the new additions are constructed using glulam and steel frame construction with red brick.