U.S. Embassy Cotonou

Cotonou is a coastal city in Benin near the equator in Western Africa with a hot, humid climate. The new Embassy is located along one of the city’s main thoroughfares, Boulevard de la Marina, originally planned as a future addition of a Marine Guard Security Residence. Significant design features include the careful establishment of clearly demarcated zones for pedestrian/vehicular, public/private, and formal/recreational/support areas. Condensate and rainwater recovery, along with the utilization of treated outflow from the wastewater treatment plant, is used to irrigate the xeric landscape, eliminating the use of potable water for irrigation. Consular and residential gardens (or private) provide opportunities for respite. The promenade and plazas serve as elegant formal entrances as well as opportunities for collaboration and relaxation. The use of native plants speaks to the regional landscape and increases critical habitat and infiltration on site.