In a post-9/11 world, the November issue of Monocle looks at the future of diplomacy and proposes a new design pattern for building embassies. Some of the key suggestions proposed:

• super secure: embrace advances in materials and technology to improve security – but don’t build a bunker
• do like the Danes: an embassy should be a showroom for a nation’s best brands and design
• better living: use your compound to sell a complete way of life
• 100% branded: the new embassy isn’t just competing with other countries but also the entire consumer landscape. Think H&M of foreign affairs
• get out there: the modern mission should re-engage with consumers, not just civil-servants
• signature branding: be unmistakable with your vernacular and choice of architect

What if indeed one would reassess the role of diplomatic presence in a country and have the physical presence reflect that role?

Also check out Monocle’s video here.

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This entry was posted on Friday, December 12th, 2008 at 12:18 and is filed under design, explore, future, society. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.