Studio 06

Czech Republic Embassy in Ethiopia – International Student Competition

Ursula Chandler

Studio Description

Architecture has been often employed as a means to define, represent and negotiate national identity. But the nation state is a relatively modern concept and potentially, increasingly obsolete. Groups with similar ethnicity, language and tradition dictate nationalism, usually organised under an independent government. But, throughout history nationalism and location have not always been interdependent, and political borders always in flux. Embassies and consulates physically represent the relationship of two states - or nations. Using the International Student Competition for the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, organised by the Department of Architecture, CTU Prague with media partner Archdaily, we will explore architecture in relation to place and identity. The competition brief described, as a ‘business card’ for the Czech Republic must also negotiate its Ethiopian and African context – socially and physically. We will propose 2,300sqm of embassy and consulate facilities including; an Embassy building, apartments, residence and services facilities on a 13,300sqm vacant plot. Submissions for the competition are due 12.06.19 and the new Embassy will be built according to the winning student’s proposal, in addition to receiving €2,000.

Studio Outcome

Our task is to explore the complex nature of nationalism and identity in an ever globalising and destabilised world. How can architecture interact with these complex social and cultural conditions? In small groups or pairs we will develop the competition brief to create individual architectural agenda’s, defining our; programme, material and construction strategies. We will focus on material expression and research construction technologies relevant to our conceptual ideas and the site’s location. This will involve physical model making and detailed development of how architectural concepts translate into built detail. You are encouraged to submit your proposal into the competition however; this is not compulsory and you are not bound to respond to the competition brief should we wish to develop the brief further along the lines of your own research interests.

Studio Leader

Ursula established Ursula Chandler Architects in 2018 having returned from 6 years working in London. Most recently, she was employed at Adjaye Associates working directly with Sir David Adjaye on a number of key projects in the Practice’s Africa portfolio including; International Finance Corporation HQ and National Cathedral of Ghana. In Australia, she was employed at Robert Simeoni Architects and Bates Smart. Ursula has taught both undergraduate and masters design studios, history and construction technology and been a visiting guest critic in both Australia and the UK. Ursula is interested in architecture, that responds to and is grounded in, the time, place and culture in which it is built

Readings & References

Key texts will be supplied at the commencement of semester. In addition to theoretical and architectural readings the studio will require in-depth reading and research into history and geography in relation to both Ethiopia and the Czech Republic.

Schedule Tuesdays 12:00-18:15 in Room 213
Travel Week 4 | $10-$150

Contact Handbook Key Dates