United States Embassy, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Located in the diplomatic quarter Baridhara in the city of Dhaka, the embassy at 81,000 square feet was conceived as a low four-square building in a garden of palm trees. The architectural design, local materials, and corner towers recall many of the themes of Mogul architecture. Another Mogul feature incorporated in the design is a moat encircling the building, which provides a secondary barrier of security.
The building is raised on a slight podium, to minimize flooding, and has three floors above grade, with the upper two set back above a planted terrace. A car-drop-off is provided outside of the compound from where most visitors will proceed through the gates on foot to the chancery.
A three story high central atrium serves as a place for informal meeting and receptions. A covered arcade borders the entry court to shelter visitors from the elements. Brick, the most frequently used material in the country, is the primary exterior material of the Chancery building.