Client: United States of America
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
Size: 232 m2 (2,500 ft2)

The addition to the front entrance of the United States Embassy (Embassy) building in Ottawa improved its security and efficiency by moving the visitors’ security screening area out of the lobby into a new vestibule addition. Through the use of existing materials (e.g., stainless steel entrance doors) and sourcing materials from the original providers (i.e., stone and granite veneers) a design was implemented so that the addition seems to be original to the building. A very high level of design aesthetic was provided to complement the excellent original look and finishes.

JLR was responsible for analyzing the Embassy’s requirements, architectural programming, design, preparing architectural and engineering construction documents, physical security, and blast engineering design. JLR also provided tendering, contract administration, and project delivery services, as well as cost estimation and schedule control for all elements of the project.

The design incorporated critical security upgrades, including blast-resistant exterior walls, windows, and doors, as well as security fencing. The building was equipped with a dedicated custom ventilation system to mitigate potential risks from chemical/biological threats. It was also designed to minimize the possibility of intrusions by using antiscalable design features, surface treatments, and removing climbable horizontal elements.

An efficient security screening system was implemented, connecting security cameras and other monitoring devices to a central Embassy marine post. Prior to the construction of the new addition, a temporary front entrance was built to allow uninterrupted access to the Embassy. The design met security, material, and construction standards of the U.S. Bureau of Overseas Building Operations as well as relevant Canadian standards.

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