British Embassy Algiers

The design of this British Embassy and compound was the first substantial example of 21st century contemporary Modernist architecture in the Algerian capital when it was completed in 2009, signalling Britain’s long-term political, cultural and commercial links with Algeria. The reinforced concrete structure has sandstone facades and external screens made with steam-twisted timber, in a geometry that relates to the site’s terraced topography. The building sits below the historic Moorish-styled Ambassador’s residence, in a garden redesigned by the practice’s landscape team that overlooks the Bay of Algiers. The building’s high BREEAM rating also made it Algeria’s most environmentally advanced building at the time of its completion.

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'Bringing all Embassy staff on to one site will have huge advantages – the new building ensures that we can operate more effectively. It also successfully incorporates all the FCO’s security stipulations whilst also delivering a high quality and economic solution for our current and anticipated accommodation requirements.'

Andrew Henderson, formerly Her Majesty’s Ambassador in Algiers

'This project has been an extraordinary opportunity – in particular to weave into the new design elements of traditional Algerian architecture whilst simultaneously flying the flag for contemporary British architecture. It also incorporates many handmade elements by both British and local craftsmen.'

John McAslan, Executive Chairman, John McAslan + Partners