Former U.S. Embassy, Accra, Ghana

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Former U.S. Embassy, Accra, Ghana

Site overview

Chicago-based architect Harry Weese took into account the climate in Ghana for his design of the US Embassy in Accra. Weese made sure to use local materials and incorporate the local architectural style versus the modern concrete box designs being erected in the U.S.. He took into account the hot climate by overhanging the roof and providing operable louvers. The embassy won a series of awards including an Honor Award for Architectural Installations for its use of native mahogany. The Ghanaian government loved the design from the beginning and wanted to negotiate buying it from the U.S. State Department. After the embassy closed in 1998, the building was used for the Ghanaian Ministry of Women and Children's Affairs.

Location

No. 24, Fourth Circular Rd
Accra

Country

GH

Designer(s)

Other designers

Sturctural Engineer: Frank J. Kornacker and Associates; Mechanical Engineer: Kravolec and Best

Related Sites

Commission

1955

Completion

1958

Commission / Completion details

Commission: 1955 (c) / Completed: 1958 (c) / Dedication: February 12, 1959 (e) / Closure: August 31, 1998 (c)

Original Brief

The architectural advisory board of the US State Department's Office of Foreign Buildings Operations (FBO) awarded Harry Weese the commission for the consulate in Ghana in 1955. In 1957 the status of the consulate changed to an embassy after Ghana became an independent sovereign state. Construction of the 8,000 square foot embassy was completed in 1958, the dedication occurred a year later in 1959.