Woodhead has worked together with the Australian government, Department of Foreign Affairs to redevelop the Australian High Commission in New Delhi, India. The redevelopment includes the provision of an interim Chancery for staging and the design and construction of a new permanent Chancery, two new townhouses, and another existing house converted into three apartments.
The redeveloped High Commission compound retains its serene character, set within manicured lawns and gardens with the new Chancery providing a setting enabling effective and efficient functional activities within the High Commission. The building provides a pleasant internal work environment and displays a range of Australian materials in the interior finishes of the public areas.
In contrast, the contemporary façade features two local stones sourced from the Rajistan desert, cream and classic Delhi-red sandstone, blending in with nearby government buildings. The stones are selected for their thermal efficiency and strength in addition to ther overall aesthetic and cultural significance. The form of the windows respects and borrows from the aperture detailing used by Sir Edwin Lutyens and also resolves specific security requirements.
The overall outcome is a peaceful, work environment representative of world-class workplace conditions and presents a welcoming presence for Australia immersed in the Indian cultural context.
