Posted by Apolline Andrieu-Delille — November 15, 2024 — The U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) has just announced that the new U.S. Embassy Windhoek, Namibia, was awarded the Best Project in the Government Building category by Engineering News Record’s (ENR) Global Best Projects competition. This esteemed recognition highlights the exceptional design and construction efforts behind the embassy, which reflects the United States’ commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relationships worldwide through the built environment.
U.S. Embassy Windhoek, Namibia. Image: OBO
For 2024, the judges examined 120 projects — the most entries ENR ever received. From this pool, 35 projects located in 19 countries were selected as outstanding, showcasing OBO and its partners’ remarkable achievements in global construction.
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill was the design architect, and B.L. Harbert International constructed the embassy, with PAGE Architects serving as the architect of record. The new embassy exemplifies excellence in architecture, sustainability, and innovative construction practices. This recognition signifies the importance of modern embassies in promoting diplomacy and engagement in host countries. The embassy in Windhoek will serve as a vital hub for U.S. diplomatic efforts in Namibia, enhancing collaboration and cooperation.
The U.S. Embassy Windhoek incorporates advanced energy-efficiency systems, including photovoltaic (PV) canopies that supply approximately half of the Chancery’s energy needs. In addition, passive environmental strategies and drought-tolerant native landscaping reduce heat gain and irrigation needs, integrating seamlessly with Windhoek’s sustainable water treatment program. Further, the site and landscape design were carefully planned to respect the Klein Windhoek floodplain located adjacent to the property.
Throughout the project, an estimated $17 million was invested in the local economy, and more than 2,000 Namibians were employed during its construction. The new embassy reaffirms the strong partnership between the two nations, serving as a hub for diplomatic activities and cultural connections for years to come.
The award will be featured in the December 16 issue of ENR, alongside other outstanding projects from around the globe, and the official presentation will take place during ENR’s virtual Global Best Projects awards event on December 19.
OBO provides the most effective facilities for United States diplomacy abroad. Since the start of the Department’s Capital Security Construction Program in 1999, OBO has completed 178 new diplomatic facilities and has more than 50 active projects in design or construction worldwide.
