JCP were appointed by DFAT to undertake the design and documentation of the Australian High Commission, Colombo, Sri Lanka. The building was designed to not only meet the functional and cost objectives established by DFAT but to provide a Chancery Building that was both thoughtful and considerate in the way it responded to the social, religious, climatic and environmental conditions of the city.

This was considered important in not only laying the foundations of Australia’s relationship with Sri Lanka but demonstrating the importance of designing for place. Through this approach key design features also allow the concealment of security requirements that enable the building to maintain its welcoming ambiance essential when developing long term International relationships.

Through the use of sunshading, large overhangs ‘local’ materials, and use of colour what is a large building in scale feels appropriate and understated in its residential setting. The building enhances the existing architectural context of the surrounding colonial houses, reflecting the traditional use of stone and timber in Sri-Lankan architecture. Furthermore the Chancery offered opportunities to invite some of the key detailing and design solutions common within the city particularly those conceived by the renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, lending the final outcome a sense of place.