US Embassy Housing Compound Port-au-Prince, Haiti

The new US Embassy Staff Housing consists of 107 new townhouse units and a new Deputy Chief of Mission residence, along with support facilities, including a recreation center with an outdoor pool and courts, for two separate compounds. The townhomes are large and range from three to five bedroom units. The inspiration for the design is derived from the local Haitian culture and is modeled after the Cubist forms of the “Bidonvilles” (clustered houses hugging the hillside). The bold, colorful forms and materials commonly found in local art, such as brightly colored metals inspire the materials used in the new housing units.

The exteriors of the new Housing are harmonious with the diverse terrain and existing landscape of Port-au-Prince. Exterior finishes primarily consist of cement plaster finish and accent horizontal aluminum panel cladding. Aluminum-framed glazing systems, doors, and windows will be shaded by a Sunshade system of overhangs and trellises.

Sustainability measures have been considered in the development of the conceptual design and include both passive and active features to offset demands on the limited local infrastructure and onsite generation. As a guideline, the USGBC LEED for Homes checklist was used to establish criteria for sustainable design and as a basis for developing appropriate systems and strategies for residential unit development.

Construction will begin in March 2012 and is scheduled to be completed in January 2014.

Client: United States Department of State

Sorg and Associates, US Embassy Housing Compound Port-au-Prince, Haiti, (2012). Click link for more images.