The Swedish Embassy garnered a great deal of international interest when it was inaugurated. The main design challenge lay in creating a safe and secure building while expressing openness, democracy and transparency.
Situated along the waterfront of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the building was designed by Gert Wingård, an eminent Swedish architect. The embassy houses 16 apartments, as well as public areas for holding exhibitions and seminars. This creative environment is where the Swedish Ambassador and approximately 50 employees work and entertain.
A belt of brightly lit trees surrounds the body of the building, giving the impression that the structure floats at night above its reflection in the river. The materials used include light-colored wood, glass and stone, all reflecting the roots and traditions of Sweden.