Denton Corker Marshall has built the new Australian Embassy in Jakarta. The Australian architects were winners of a competition to design Australia’s largest diplomatic post.

The complex includes the Chancery, Head of Mission Residence, 32 staff accommodation units, medical facilities and recreational spaces, and complies with tight security standards.

The embassy is located close to the centre of Jakarta,

The largest building in the complex is the Chancery, which takes the form of 12 interconnected rectilinear volumes. The large masses evoke the well-known Australian forms of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Each volume is clad in a metal mined in Australia, including zinc, aluminium, copper, brass and steel. Each panel features debossed patterns that add texture and interest to the surfaces.

"The form of the chancery is uncomplicated, direct but at the same time powerful and memorable," said the architects.

The forms and materials used in the interiors complement the exterior. Panels of Australian wood add warmth and feature perforated patterns to improve the acoustics. The panels depict abstract scenes of Australian landmarks, including the Bungle Bungles and the Twelve Apostles.

Next to the chancery, is the Head of Mission residence, a two-storey building formed of interlocking blocks. The entry forecourt features a large reflecting pool, and is intended to be a relaxed yet formal welcome to the property. The first floor of the Head of Mission features a swimming pool and outdoor terrace.

Staff accommodation is arranged in two rows with different coloured facades that step in and out. A garden stretches between the rows of accommodation, providing a secure outdoor space for residents.

The Jakarta embassy "is unequivocal and confident. It doesn't look superficially 'Australia' but relies on a subtler reading of the Australian character," said the architects.

This article was originally published on The Real Estate Conversation.