House of Sweden is the result of an architectural competition announced by the National Property Board in June 2002. At that time, the Swedish government had entered into an agreement with an American developer to rent part of the intended building on the site in Georgetown, near Washington Harbour. The aim was to build a completely new type of embassy which would be something of a showroom for Sweden, and the aim was to design it using Swedish architecture. The fairly complex competition assignment included creating an atmosphere of openness and transparency unique to any embassy building. The building was also meant to be home to more public areas so that exhibitions and seminars could be held; and there were to be two floors of apartments.
House of Sweden is built on a site surrounded by the waters of the Potomac river. The building which symbolises Sweden with an open, transparent democracy is situated in this, one of the most public places in Washington. The embassy is very readily accessible for the general public. The building, 6 400 sq m in area 1 500 sq m of garage, is light and airy, with huge glass sections. Light transfer is an important part of the building, both inside and out. Around the entire building is a belt of pale, backlit wood, which makes it look as though the building is floating in the dark.
House of Sweden is carried on white pillars and illuminated with Nordic light. Pale wood, glass and stone have been used in its construction, often in various layers. The architecture is adventurous and elegant, and ideal for the site. This building is a symbol for Sweden, in all respects.
The building was opened in October 2006. It won the Kasper Salin Award in 2007, and this was the reasoning of the judges: “For a well executed project from an overall perspective. The creators have handled a tricky urban building situation and skilfully shaped the Swedish authorities’ tradition of openness. The sensuous materials of the rich interior are very much the jewel in the crown of this embassy building.”
This assignment was executed by Tomas Hansen via Wingårdh Arkitektkontor, initially as an employee (- 2004) and then as a subconsultant (2005-2006).