Cultural Reflections (Page 1 )

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The Norwegian Embassy is built as a free-standing building in the garden of an older villa, which previously housed the existing embassy. The old building will soon be demolished to make way for the new ambassadori's residence.The site, in the area of Lalitpur, is roughly 4-acres and sits high overlooking Kathmandu.

The site for the embassy steps steeply down towards the north. The fall of the site, taken from the highest point down to the entrance area and courtyard, is equivalent to one floor level. The courtyard sits a further floor level above the main gates. The site is surrounded by high walls with neighbouring buildings but right up to the property line. On clear days, the Himalaya mountain range can be seen to the north.

The aim of the project was to create a representative modest building, which presents Norway in a modern quality conscious way. There was an emphasis on the that the forming and detailing of the building should not alien to Nepal and that the use of materials should re local ways of construction.

The new building is on the main part built as one level, which lies low in the landscape so as not to obstruct the view of the Himalayas for the future ambassador's residence. A smaller two-floored volume towards the west was pulled further out than the ground floor so as to mark the main entrance. This form give the house a 'face' while at the same time allowing the rooms on the first floor to have views to the Himalayas. The Zigzag formed 'Himalayan window' mirrors the mountain range in the distance.

Vehicular access is secured by a main gate and sluice, which allows for the inspection of cars. The entrance courtyard and driveway are an important introduction to the embassy. natural stone of high quality is used throughout with planting on shelves integrated into the walls.

(Continues...)

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