British High Commission, Abuja, Nigeria
This space implements unique elements to meet the needs of two opposing design requirements.
Following a rigorous design competition, CallisonRTKL was appointed to design the new British High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria. The design requirements included two opposing prerequisites: develop a welcoming and open public face to the building while offering a secure working environment for its occupants. Drawing on its vast experience in this field, CallisonRTKL’s design uses spatial elements to organize the building. The heart of the Commission is a triple height atrium space that bisects the site, securing the public areas from the private functions. The atrium draws the landscape into and through the building, bringing natural light to the core. Visitors to the Commission arrive via the combined visa/consular entrance at the southwest corner of the site. The result is a design that reinforces the British High Commission’s role in Abuja while offering a functional and flexible environment for visitors and employees.
