Structural engineering for chancery and related buildings of seven-building embassy complex on new site near airport. Wind, seismic, and blast analysis. 150,178 sf.

The new US embassy complex in Tunis replaced two existing facilities with a single compound on a 21-acre triangular site in the northeast section of the city. The program for the initial phase included a 7,400-square-meter two-story chancery (NOB) and an additional 11,000 square meters for guard houses, central plant, motor pool and commissary (GSMP), GSO building, warehouse/shops building (WHE), and Marine Security Guard Quarters. The structures were designed to meet wind, seismic, and blast load requirements. Another objective was to create a welcoming, climate-controlled, sustainable, and secure environment that included communal spaces for enjoyment of the beautiful surroundings. A second phase will provide townhouses for embassy staff and a recreation center. The entire planning and design process was completed in a record-setting 11 months, to meet a State Department goal. The complex came in under budget.

The design, based on the concept of a mansion in a park, uses local resilient flora. A landscaped green space crosses the middle of the site on the north-south axis. The entrance follows this axis, providing a greenway arrival sequence and gracious garden in front of the chancery. A series of olive tree groves behind the chancery takes advantage of water retention ponds, an irrigation system that maximizes natural water collection.

Completion Date: 2002
Location: Tunis, Tunisia
Owner or Client: Department of State, OBO
Prime Consultant(s): Tai Soo Kim