Embassy rises up on Thames south bank

Steelwork erection for the new Embassy of the United States of America is taking shape on London’s south bank.

The steel-framed structure is being built by a US/British joint venture between B.L Harbert and Sir Robert McAlpine. Approximately 3,000t of structural steel is being fabricated, supplied and erected by Severfield, with a further 900t of steel sourced by the project team via the USA.

Stability for the building is derived from a large centrally positioned core that also absorbs structural loads transferred via the floor slabs. Spans within the building are generally long – between 15m and 18m in length – producing a predominantly column free interior.

Designed by US-based architect Kieran Timberlake, the Embassy building will be a glazed structure with an outer scrim of ETFE cushions.

The façade will be orientated to provide shade, minimise heat absorption and protect the building from external environment while acting as a thermal buffer.

The project has been funded entirely from the proceeds of the sale of other US Government properties in London, including the present embassy in Grosvenor Square

The new 46,500m² embassy is expected to be complete by 2017.