Architecture and interior design studio The Manser Practice won an international competition in 2019 to design the German Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The practice, which is working alongside BDP Engineers and local practice MGM, saw off competition from five other shortlisted practices, including four German practices, to win the £25m contract.
At 7,500 ft and located in the highlands of central Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is the world’s third highest capital city. The competition was launched in November 2018 and sought designs for a new visa consular building and diplomatic residences, as well as rebuilding parts of the embassy grounds including improvements to the entrances to the compound and the ambassador’s residence.
The Manser Practice’s winning entry focusses on sustainable, environmentally-friendly buildings designed for the Ethiopian climate. There will be a concentration on local skills, materials and products, and an emphasis on avoiding – where possible – European equipment requiring subsequent maintenance from Europe, making the compound significantly more self-sufficient. The new designs will unify the buildings across the site, contributing a local flavour and context but with echoes of European detailing.
