Royal Netherlands Embassy
Warsaw, Poland

The Royal Netherlands Embassy is situated in a predominantly green residential area near Lazienski Park in Warsaw and combines the chancery and ambassador’s residence. The client’s objective was a design that reflects the Dutch tradition of transparency and openness. Inspired by the Baroque yet modest style of Tylman van Gameren, a Dutch architect who influenced Polish architecture in the 17th century, the chancery is designed to be light and translucent, reflecting the scenery. Retaining most of the trees, the new complex radiates a park-like quality.The residence is conceived as a villa in a park, its stone exterior reinforcing the concept of an independent element in the environment.

A public courtyard between the two buildings allows views out into the landscape and an ornamental gate with an organic design combines with a glazed screen to create a second layer to the chancery. Natural stone loggias connect the outer wall to the exterior envelope of the building. These elements mediate spatially between the street and the new embassy. As a result, the Dutch Embassy is both part of, and enclosed by its surroundings. This integration of the surroundings into the complex emphasizes the individuality of its components, expresses their coherence and creates an open and inviting complex that radiates the client’s philosophy.

Country
Poland
City
Warsaw
Function
Bespoke
Size
3,500 m2
Assigned by
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Real Estate Abroad Service
Status
Completed in 2004
Design in 1999

Progress

1 / 3
2 / 3
3 / 3

Awards

2004
CEE Real Estate Quality Award
Nomination
2005
Life in Architecture Award
Winner, Best Building in Warsaw 2004-2005

Blueprint

Publications

Architecture of diplomacy: Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Polish architect Radosław Gajda visits the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Warsaw.

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