The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Addis Ababa

Wroclaw University of Technology, (Politechnika Wrocławska), Faculty of Architecture, Wrocław

Project idea

Like the Vltava bridges links Prague districts, the Embassy builds a connection between Ethiopia and the Czech Republic through diplomatic relations.
The bridge is a symbol of durability and economic development. This form reflects the rich history and traditions of both countries as well as their willingness to cooperate with each other in the future.
The mass and void elements of façades represent the respectively solid structure and transparency of the Czech government policy.

Project description

The plot is divided into three main parts (starting from the East): residential with one single-story building for local workforce which forms the first ‘bridge’. In this part also three-story residential building for the embassy staff and three-story residence are located. These two buildings form the second ‘bridge’. Next, there is a representative part with the three-story main embassy building and public part with single-story consular and visa building. The last two buildings form the third ‘bridge’ and are additionally connected through a footbridge with each other on the first floor. There are five guarded entrances which result from two roads that led through the plot: representative and residential plus separate public entrance to the consular and visa buildings. Supporting facilities such as playground, tennis court and field for ball games are located in the North part of the plot. There is an indoor swimming pool on the ground floor of the residential building for the embassy staff. Tukul is located among greenery halfway between dining functions of the embassy and residence. All green parts of the rooftops are accessible to residents or guests of the embassy premises. The project is designed to host both public events and private meetings (which can be held alternatively in indoor meeting room on the rooftop of consular and visa building) as well as ensure leisure activities and comfortable living for approximately forty people.

Technical information

Mostly longitudinal wall construction system with hollow concrete blocks is used in the project. In larger spans column and slab construction system with reinforced concrete and steel trusses is used. In some parts double roof structure in other green roof solution prevents overheating of the interior. Additional façade walls form architecture and provide shade to the buildings between them. The façade finish is made out of light clinker brick, plaster and glass panels. The complex is located on a designated plot of 13.304 square meters on Bole Kifle Ketema Kebele 6, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Co-authors

Promoter: Stanisaw Lose, PhD Eng. Arch.

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