Consulate General of the United States of America, Hyderabad, India

The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad, India skillfully integrates function, security, and sustainability with a culturally sensitive & dramatic site response to create a landmark building. It serves as an expression of the local identity, reflective of the rich history and culture of the host city and country. The new campus relocates the current mission post from an outgrown and aging palace to a new facility that represents the U.S. diplomatic mission in Hyderabad and accommodates its expanding needs.

The concept, planning, and design were influenced by the massive boulder formations & significant changes in elevation throughout the site. The design approach minimizes impact, limiting excavation to respect the culturally significant landscape. The site is thoughtfully planned to preserve the most prominent rock formations. Where earthwork is necessary, boulders are salvaged for reuse elsewhere in the landscape. The sensitive site approach compliments an adjacent nature preserve featuring a lake integral to regional stormwater management, together forming an urban oasis representative of the native landscape that all but disappeared within a context of the surrounding area.

The project utilizes simple materials selected for their weatherability, constructability, and timeless qualities. Cast in place concrete is used for its robust and resilient structural qualities. The introduction of a high-volume fly ash, white cement, and titanium dioxide creates a light colorization, with a resilient and durable finish. The building is ensconced with metal panels unifying the building on the east and west exposures. The perforated bronze skin is articulated as a Jali screen, a traditional response to the need for shade and privacy. The Jali screen filters light and views along the primary elevations and moderates natural light to interior representational spaces.