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Jerusalem
Diamond and Schmitt Architects
Photography © Tim Griffith
Dignity and light redefine safety
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"Demanding
security issues were integrated into the architecture
so they became either environmental assets or
invisible." —Moshe
Safdie, FAIA
Architect
Diamond and Schmitt Architects www.dsai.ca;
Kolker, Kolker Epstein Architects (associate architect)
Client
Israeli Foreign Ministry
Key
players
E. Rahat & Associates (construction
management); Yaron-Shimoni-Shacham Consulting
Engineers (structural); The Mitchell Partnership
(mechanical); Aarenson Construction (general contractor)
Read
more
Project
Portfolio [June
2003]
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Program: Formerly
housed in a series of one-story buildings, the Israeli Foreign
Ministry hoped to consolidate its offices into a single structure.
The new facility would host efficient and flexible administration
offices, provide space for events and ceremonies, and serve
as a model of security in the Middle East. The project needed
to contextually fit into the wall-like row of buildings that
surround the site, maintaining the intimate scale of its predecessor.
Solution: Despite
a high level of security, the new ministry appears inviting
and dignified. An elegant and practical solution eliminated
the need for security barriers. Instead, plantings obscure
views and block access to the entrance, and a sloping arrival
court creates separate entrances for dignitaries and officials
(on the lower level) and staff (on the upper level). A soft
yellow glow emanates from the building's central reception
hall, projecting a visibly elegant image. Despite its striking
appearance, the hall is able to withstand an explosion, thanks
to innovative aluminum spring clips that enable its onyx-panel
cladding to retract and recoil. A teak screen on the mezzanine
walkway of the reception hall protects against inward flying
debris. The staff feels comfortable and secure in their new
offices.
For more images please see the November
2004 issue or Architectural Record.
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Record in print, or get Architectural
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