Pressroom

Presentation by Winning Team on May 26

Contact: John Schneidawind
202-626-7457
johnschneidawind@aia.org

Washington, D.C. – May 19, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today announced the opening of an exhibit of the New London Embassy Design Competition, with a presentation of the winning plan by the AIA award-winning firm of Kieran Timberlake on May 26.

Where: American Institute of Architects
1735 New York Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20006-5292

When: May 26, 2010
Exhibit Opens: 6:00 p.m.
Lecture Begins: 6:30 p.m.

RSVP: Christy Foushee, Department of State; 703.875.5751; email: FousheeCT@state.gov
Rebecca Joly, AIA; 202.626.7312; email: RJoly@aia.org

BACKGROUND: Designing a new Embassy for the United States in London was a rare opportunity to create a landmark building that represents the close relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. It also posed a number of challenges, as it would have to be “welcoming” without compromising security; reflect the United States values of freedom, dignity openness and justice; and finally incorporating the latest in environmentally-sound building techniques.

The exhibit displays the models and the design competition boards from the four competing architectural firms, KieranTimberlake, Morphosis Architects, Pei Cobb Freed & Partners and Richard Meier & Partners. In addition, on display is the 1960’s model of the current London Embassy designed by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen.

The presentation by the two winning architects promises to be an evening of enlightenment and learning for anyone interested in how design and architecture can contribute to an appreciation of American values and freedom - exemplified by U.S. Embassy structures throughout the globe.

The exhibit will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays, through June 30, at the American Institute of Architects located 1735 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC. Admission is free to the public.

About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org