A recent publication by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Overseas Building Operations features the London embassy as an exemplar of a new paradigm for embassy design that emphasizes the role of architecture in diplomacy.

As stated in the guiding principles, the purpose and function of embassies and consulates is “to be safe, functional, and inspiring places for the conduct of diplomacy and to physically represent the U.S. Government to the host nation. A facility that represents the best of American architecture, design, engineering, and construction will be an appropriate workspace, and will also be contextually appropriate and become a respected landmark—representing the best of American Government, enterprise, and culture—in the host nation.” 
 
Also pictured are the U.S. embassies in Rome, Beijing, and Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei), as well as the American Legation Museum in Tangier, Morocco. 
 
View the State Department's Design Excellence website.