Embassy of the Czech Republic in Addis Ababa

FA VUT - Brno University of Technology, Faculty of Architecture

Project idea

Security. Representation. Relationships. Friendship. Culture. These are the very first words that appeared in my mind when it came to the question of Embassy. But also with respect for local natural conditions, land and local people. With the touch of our Czech history, but with a kiss of Addis Ababa. And I knew the main idea of the project would be gathering these words - meanings to create one harmonic complex. All my sketches lead to the circle and round harmonic and symmetrical composition which would be in the right (10-25m) distance from the plot boundaries and also preserve as much viridity and existing trees as possible. What more, circle refers to our Slavic roots. Therefore, the idea was to design symmetrical object from outside, which would look a little monumental :-), but acted friendly, especially when we cross its borders and get to the core.

Project description

The idea was not to design closed unfriendly object with no fragments, I just wanted to be it in such a harmony, so it would create contrast to the anarchy of fragmented urban structure of dwellings and other houses in Addis Ababa, where almost every important building is undivided solitaire. By cutting the object into halves, symbolically in direction of the Czech Republic, to be specific, direction of Czernin Palace, the area opened and new spaces were formed. Perpendicular to this main line came into being new axis, axis on which would lie all of the main entrances - main entrance to the official building, following by entrance to the assembly building and then to the residence.
The secondary structure of the objects consists of frames, which could be taken as sunblinds, but their true meaning is to bring a little historical - heritage of Czech and even Ethiopian architecture to this building. Rhythmical frames should recall rhythmical structure of Czernin Palace, collonades of Czech spa towns as well as rhythm of old Ethiopian Imperial Buildings.
Secondary frames also gatheres almost individual objects back to the circle, but transformed. In each object the frames look different, but still are in the same raster, so it shows as one harmonic complex.
The closer is object/building to the center, the more important is. The closer to the center, the larger private garden area it has. Moreover, closeness to the center provides more security. Very close to the center, to the core is the Assembly object. It stands as a solitaire in the representative square/gardens so the people could guess something special is going on right there.

Technical information

The substance/matter of objects is made of glass and concrete, or - variably - of mud as a cheaper version. The main construction is for every object the same, it is the rainforced concrete frames which also determinates disposition of buildings inside. The concrete frames can be understood as shadings and sun protection.

The square in the core can be used as socalled “watersquare” as a solution of rainy seasons and seasons of drought. During the rainy seasons the water that green roofs and vegetation wouldnt need anymore would be lead to the square fountain in the centre of area, which would work as a water retention and be stored for seasons of drought this way.
Coffee trees and common vegetation would be planted, especially on the perimeter of the plot. The Moringa trees would be planted, mainly on public places and in the gardens of building for local workforce, plentifully. Moringa would be planted as a symbol of solidarity, friendship and it could provide a lot of nutrients for people in need.